Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Congratulates Bio on ECOWAS Chair

Former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Pays Courtesy Call on Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio, Congratulates Him on ECOWAS Chairmanship

State House, Freetown, Wednesday, 2 July 2025 — Her Excellency Dr Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia and Nobel Peace Laureate, paid a courtesy call on His Excellency President Dr Julius Maada Bio at State House in Freetown to congratulate him personally on his recent appointment as Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS.

During the visit, Dr Sirleaf expressed her admiration for and confidence in President Bio’s leadership. She noted that his election comes at a time of significant regional challenges as well as opportunities. “With you as the new Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority, we are pleased and confident that you will deliver,” she said. “We know that by the end of your tenure, ECOWAS will be proud of your leadership.”

Dr Sirleaf, one of Africa’s most respected stateswomen, commended President Bio’s record in governance, his principled leadership, and his commitment to regional peace and development.

In his response, President Bio thanked Dr Sirleaf for her visit and longstanding friendship. “Madam President, you have always honoured me with your presence whenever you are in Sierra Leone, and you are always welcome here,” he said. He expressed his deep appreciation for her support and goodwill and assured her of his dedication to his new regional responsibilities.

President Bio reaffirmed his commitment to promoting peace, democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and the empowerment of women and girls — values both leaders have long championed.

The meeting concluded with mutual expressions of hope and solidarity for continued progress across West Africa under Sierra Leone’s leadership.

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