MAKENI – Former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma has called on Sierra Leoneans, especially young people, to embrace entrepreneurship, private enterprise and investment as engines of job creation and national development.
Speaking at a homecoming reception at Wusum Hotel in Makeni on Saturday, 19th September 2026, Koroma said politics and public service should not be seen as the only pathways to success.
Drawing on his own experience in the private sector before entering politics, he urged young people to pursue business and create opportunities for themselves and others.
The former President also renewed his call for peace and national cohesion, urging citizens to focus on issues rather than individuals and to rise above narrow political interests.
The reception at Wusum Hotel was part of activities marking his return to his birthplace after more than two and a half years in Abuja, Nigeria.
Koroma returned permanently to Sierra Leone on 6th September 2026, accompanied by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and Nigeria’s Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu. He was received at Lungi by Foreign Minister Mohamed Rahman Swarray and senior APC officials.
He had left Sierra Leone in January 2024 for medical treatment after being charged with treason and related offences linked to the 26th November 2023 attacks on military barracks and prisons in Freetown. He has consistently denied any involvement. The charges were discontinued by the Attorney General in July 2026 through a nolle prosequi.
Following his return, Koroma met with President Julius Maada Bio at State House and thanked him for assurances of safety, security and full recognition of his status as a former Head of State. He also visited his parents’ graves in Makeni in a private pilgrimage.
At Wusum Field earlier last week, Koroma declared himself available as a father figure to all Sierra Leoneans regardless of political affiliation.
“I am available to serve as a father figure and adviser not only for the APC but the SLPP and any other organisations in Sierra Leone,” he told supporters.
Speakers at Saturday’s reception reflected on his humility, generosity and commitment to service, while Koroma said he plans to channel his efforts through a new foundation focused on peacebuilding, preventive peace, national cohesion and development.
He said he will not contest for the APC chairmanship nor seek the presidency again, and will use his international connections to support Sierra Leone’s development ahead of the 2028 general elections.
