By Hussain J-Isah
The President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Julius Maada Bio has decorated the Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede with the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Rokel at a colourful parade during the 17th Armed Forces Day of Republic of Sierra Leone.
The award was given to Gen. Oluyede in recognition of his contributions to secure and ensure peace in Sierra Leone during the years the General served in the country under the umbrella of the Economic Community of West Africa Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) as well as in appreciation of the sacrifices of all the Nigerian officers and soldiers who contributed to the peace and stability of Sierra Leone.
Reading Gen. Oluyede’s citation during the award, the CDS was recognised as having served in ECOMOG in Sierra Leone in addition to other operational accomplishments.
The Chief of Defence Staff was deployed as a Platoon Commander at the residence of the then Sierra Leone Head of State between 1992 and 1994 where his exemplary service, leadership and unwavering commitment to the peace and stability of government was recognized
Aside the Nigerian CDS other distinguished personalities from Nigeria, Guinea, United Kingdom, United States and Kenya among others were equally awarded medals during the ceremony. This included former Nigerian CDS Gen Martin Luther Agwai (rtd), Lt Gen Daniel Opande of Kenya (rtd), Lt Gen Ibrahima Sory Bangoura of Guinea.
Others include Maj Gen Paul Rogers of USA and Brig Gen Edward Butler (Rtd) of the UK.
The event was marked by praise for several selected countries and solemn tribute paid to the courage, sacrifice and solidarity of Nigerian Armed Forces whose steadfast commitment under ECOMOG stood at the forefront of regional peace enforcement during Sierra Leone’s Civil War.
The Nigerian contingent was particularly commended for display of bravery, resilience and protection of civilians.
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