In a proactive move aimed at facilitating the deployment of an ECOWAS mission to Sierra Leone, a nine-member delegation led by Brigadier General Mactar Diop recently received a comprehensive update on the internal security status from Sierra Leone's Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. William Fayia Sellu.

The initiative stemmed from the directives of the 64th Ordinary Session of the Authority of the heads of State and Government held on December 10th, 2023, in Abuja. During this session, the ECOWAS Commission was tasked with facilitating the deployment of an ECOWAS mission to Sierra Leone. As part of the preparation for this deployment, the ECOWAS Commission undertook a preliminary reconnaissance mission from February 4th to 10th, 2024.

The delegation, comprising Brigadier General Omubo Doniboye, Colonel Attoumgbre Joseph Kouame, Colonel Ibrahim Alhassan Mohamed, Colonel Claude D. Jehoungo, Colonel Richard Balima, Lieutenant Colonel Seedy Joof, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Hamidu Nuhu, and Mr. Bekaye Coulibaly, joined Brigadier General Diop in the visit to Sierra Leone.

The primary objective of the delegation's visit was to engage with relevant authorities and stakeholders to assess the administrative and logistical requirements for the deployment of the ECOWAS mission. This proactive approach underscores ECOWAS's commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region.

The briefing provided by IGP Sellu offered valuable insights into the current internal security landscape in Sierra Leone, enabling the delegation to gain a comprehensive understanding of the prevailing conditions. Such information is vital for the effective planning and execution of any peacekeeping mission.

Additionally, the visit facilitated constructive dialogue and collaboration between ECOWAS representatives and Sierra Leonean authorities, fostering a conducive environment for future cooperation in addressing security challenges within the region.

By actively engaging with national stakeholders and conducting preliminary assessments, ECOWAS demonstrates its commitment to promoting peace and security in Sierra Leone and the wider West African region. The briefing provided by IGP Sellu serves as a crucial step towards the successful deployment of the ECOWAS mission, ultimately contributing to the advancement of peace and stability in Sierra Leone.