Pres. Bio Reaffirms Commitment to Military Reform, Democracy and 25% Pay Rise at 17th Armed Forces Day
By: Fatmata Lebbie
President Julius Maada Bio has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to military reform, constitutional democracy and improved welfare for service personnel during the commemoration of the 17th Armed Forces Day yesterday at the Hockey Pitch, Wilberforce Barrack in Freetown.
Addressing members of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, diplomats and other guests, the President described the occasion as a moment of national honour to recognise the courage, discipline and sacrifice of the country’s servicemen and women. He paid tribute to personnel safeguarding Sierra Leone’s sovereignty and contributing to international peacekeeping missions, with a moment of silence observed for fallen soldiers.
Speaking in his capacity as Chairperson of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, Bio condemned unconstitutional changes of government in West Africa, stating that there is no justification for coups in a modern democratic Africa. Drawing from Sierra Leone’s civil war experience, he stressed that the military must remain subordinate to civilian authority and committed to defending, not undermining, democracy.
The President outlined reforms aimed at strengthening discipline, professionalism and accountability within the armed forces, including a return to established military doctrine, enhanced training and sustained annual recruitment. He noted Sierra Leone’s continued contribution to international stabilisation efforts, including the deployment of two infantry companies to Haiti.
Highlighting the military’s role in national development, Bio announced cabinet approval for Defence Enterprises, including an endowment and loan scheme for personnel and the allocation of 10,000 acres for agricultural projects to support national food security. He also referenced ongoing infrastructure projects involving military engineering units.
In a major welfare announcement, the President confirmed a 25 percent salary increase for armed forces personnel, effective April 2026, following recommendations from the 2024 Armed Forces Pay Review. He said the decision reflects government recognition of the sacrifices made by service members and the need to improve living standards.
Bio further pledged improved welfare for retired personnel, directing that the Veterans’ Bill before Parliament be expedited. He thanked international partners including Nigeria, Guinea, Ghana, the United Kingdom, the United Nations and the African Union for their support during Sierra Leone’s civil war and democratic recovery, noting that the country’s stability is rooted in both national sacrifice and international solidarity.
He concluded by urging unity and collective responsibility in safeguarding peace, democracy and national stability.
