State House, Freetown, Thursday, 11 July 2025 – His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio has officially decorated the newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Amara Idara Bangura, along with Major General S.D.T. Ngaujah, Major General K.T. Sesay, and other general-ranking officers during a solemn ceremony held at State House.
During the decoration ceremony and oath-taking, the Secretary to the President, Mr. Baba Fortune, explained that based on the recommendation of the Defence Council, His Excellency President Bio had graciously approved the promotions of Lt. Gen. Bangura and his colleagues.
The newly promoted officers were administered their oaths of office in accordance with established military tradition.
In his remarks, Lieutenant General Amara Idara Bangura, speaking on behalf of all the newly promoted officers, expressed sincere gratitude to President Bio for his leadership and confidence in their service.
“On behalf of our families and fellow generals present, I wish to extend our heartfelt appreciation for the trust you continue to place in us and for your commitment to the welfare of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces. Morale is high, and this has helped build greater trust and confidence within the ranks,” he stated.
In his response, President Bio congratulated the newly promoted Chief of Defence Staff and the other generals, commending them for their discipline, hard work, and dedication to national service.
โIt is always a proud moment to receive a promotion in the army. Today is no exception, it is a recognition of your sacrifice and commitment. You all deserve these ranks. But with new ranks come greater responsibility. I urge you to continue working together and providing the kind of leadership this country needs,โ President Bio stated.
He also admonished the senior officers to remain vigilant and loyal in protecting the peace and stability of the nation.
โYou are the guardians of the peaceful ecosystem we currently enjoy. That responsibility lies squarely on your shoulders. We expect you to lead with integrity and ensure a stable and secure environment for every citizen to thrive,โ he concluded.
The Director General of the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Charles Cooper, read out the citations of the newly promoted officers, highlighting their distinguished records of service and projected leadership paths within the military.
