The immediate past Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Professor Yemi Osinbajo, has praised President Dr Julius Maada Bio’s human capital development initiative as a people-centred and game-changing model for national progress.
Professor Osinbajo delivered the Guest Speaker’s address at the maiden edition of the Julius Maada Bio Leadership Colloquium, organised to mark the President’s 61st birthday. The high-level event brought together senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, religious and traditional leaders, civil society representatives, the media, youth groups, political party members, and citizens from all walks of life.
In his address, Professor Osinbajo congratulated President Bio on his 61st birthday and commended him for initiating a colloquium that not only celebrates leadership but also informs the public about Sierra Leone’s development future underpinned by people-centred policies.
He noted that President Bio’s Free Quality Education Programme is a hallmark of democratic governance, rooted in the principle of access and equity. He further applauded the Gender Empowerment Act, the 30% quota for women’s representation in governance, and other landmark policies introduced by the Bio administration, describing them as “game-changing decisions that will shape the future of Sierra Leone.”
“The only true guarantee of democracy is to deliver meaningful development to the majority,” said Prof. Osinbajo. “Mr. President, your administration presents a compelling example of bold, strategic steps to close the gender gap and invest in human potential. Today, we honour you as a leader who governs with purpose and puts his people at the heart of national progress.”
He concluded with prayers for President Bio’s physical and spiritual well-being and called on all Sierra Leoneans to recommit to the national vision
Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, in his welcome remarks, expressed great honour at hosting Professor Osinbajo, whom he described as an esteemed guest of honour. He lauded President Bio’s unique leadership style, particularly his deep commitment to human capital development, which he said has positively impacted the lives of countless Sierra Leoneans—especially young people.
“President Bio’s extemporary leadership reflects his enduring values and beliefs in investing in citizens. His legacy is one of empowerment and opportunity, especially for the many young men and women he has allowed to serve this country,” Vice President Jalloh stated.
In his keynote address, President Dr Julius Maada Bio, speaking on the theme “From Vision to Impact” – The People-Centred Leadership Model,” expressed deep gratitude to Professor Osinbajo for honouring the invitation to speak at the event.
He noted that he sees birthdays not just as milestones, but as sacred opportunities for reflection and renewal. “Today, I want to reflect on the formative experiences that have shaped my beliefs, the strong connections of duty and hope that drive our work, and the call to service that inspires each of us to turn vision into impact,” the President stated.
He recounted his journey “from soldier to statesman,” highlighting how his leadership path was shaped during Sierra Leone’s darkest periods. “I learnt that leadership may begin in crisis, but it must endure beyond it. It is not conferred by rank or title, but by the bond of trust between leaders and the people they serve.”
President Bio also paid tribute to his late mother, describing her as a woman of resilience, integrity, and faith. “She raised us with strength and unwavering values after my father’s passing. From her, I learnt that true authority grows from sacrifice and trust,” he reflected.
The event concluded with renewed calls for public service, national unity, and a continued commitment to people-centred development as the cornerstone of President Bio’s legacy.
