On Tuesday, September 11, 2024, a delegation from the Michigan State National Guard, accompanied by the U.S. Ambassador to Sierra Leone and Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Defense, visited President Dr. Julius Maada Bio at the State House. This visit marked a significant step in finalizing the State Partnership Program (SPP) between the Michigan State National Guard and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces.

Deputy Minister of Defense, Colonel (Ret.) Muana Brima Massaquoi, introduced the delegation, thanking President Bio for hosting the team. He explained that the purpose of the visit was to formalize a partnership that has been in development since 2019, with the signing of a letter of consent to officially solidify cooperation between the two military forces.

Major General Paul Rogers, Adjutant General of the Michigan National Guard and head of the U.S. delegation, emphasized the importance of the agreement, noting that while Sierra Leone is the newest member of the SPP, the partnership offers an exciting opportunity for collaboration.

In response, President Bio welcomed the delegation and praised the ongoing efforts to establish the partnership. He affirmed his government’s commitment to the program, believing it will enhance national security and stability in line with Sierra Leone’s broader development goals. The President reiterated his dedication to building on the progress made over the past six years, stressing both short-term and long-term objectives to ensure the program’s success. The State Partnership Program aims to foster military cooperation and strengthen security initiatives between the United States and Sierra Leone.