Former Nigerian Vice President Osinbajo Hails President Bio’s Leadership at Maiden Colloquium in Freetown
Former Vice President of Nigeria, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, has praised President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership style and development initiatives during the inaugural Julius Maada Bio Leadership Colloquium, held at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown.
Delivering the keynote speech as Guest Speaker at the high-level event marking President Bio’s 61st birthday, Osinbajo commended the Sierra Leonean leader for his focus on human capital development, describing his governance approach as people-centred and transformational.
“Mr. President, your administration presents a compelling example of bold, strategic steps to close the gender gap and invest in human potential,” Osinbajo said. “Your Free Quality Education Programme and gender empowerment policies are game-changing decisions that will shape Sierra Leone’s future.”
The former Nigerian Vice President further hailed President Bio’s Gender Empowerment Act and the 30% quota for women’s representation in governance as key markers of inclusive leadership. He called on Sierra Leoneans to recommit to national unity and support the government’s development vision.
In his welcome remarks, Sierra Leone’s Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh described Osinbajo as an esteemed guest and praised President Bio’s leadership legacy, noting his dedication to empowering young people and building institutional capacity.
“President Bio’s extemporary leadership reflects enduring values that prioritise investment in citizens,” Dr Jalloh said. “His administration has opened doors for youth participation in governance and national service.”
Speaking on the theme “From Vision to Impact – The People-Centred Leadership Model,” President Bio expressed appreciation to Osinbajo and all attendees. He used the occasion to reflect on his personal leadership journey, shaped by Sierra Leone’s civil conflict and national recovery efforts.
“I learnt that leadership may begin in crisis, but it must endure beyond it,” the President said. “It is not conferred by rank or title, but by the bond of trust between leaders and the people they serve.”
He also paid tribute to his late mother, whom he credited with instilling in him the values of resilience and service. President Bio reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive development, national unity, and effective public service.
The colloquium drew participation from government officials, diplomats, traditional and religious leaders, civil society actors, youth groups, and citizens. The event concluded with renewed calls for a united effort toward sustainable development driven by people-focused policies.
