Agwai Receives Sierra Leone’s Grand Commander National Honour

Retired General Martin Luther Agwai has been conferred with the Grand Commander of the Order of Sierra Leone, one of the highest national honours of the West African nation. Agwai, a former Chief of Defence Staff of Nigeria and Vice President of the Board of the International Institute for African Defense, Security and Governance, received […]

Retired General Martin Luther Agwai has been conferred with the Grand Commander of the Order of Sierra Leone, one of the highest national honours of the West African nation.

Agwai, a former Chief of Defence Staff of Nigeria and Vice President of the Board of the International Institute for African Defense, Security and Governance, received the award from the President of Sierra Leone during the country’s Armed Forces Day celebration in Freetown on February 18, 2026.

The investiture formed part of activities marking Sierra Leone’s Armed Forces Day. The Grand Commander of the Order of Sierra Leone is reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service to humanity, peace, and national development.

Agwai was recognised for his contributions to peacekeeping, regional security, and international cooperation. He previously served as Force Commander of the African Union–United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur, where he played a key role in stabilisation efforts.

Dignitaries at the ceremony described the honour as a testament to his enduring legacy in strengthening military cooperation and promoting peace across Africa.

In his remarks, Agwai expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Sierra Leone, dedicating the award to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and peacekeepers worldwide.

Several Nigerian dignitaries accompanied him to the ceremony, including Senator Muhtar Dandutse, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Education and TETFUND; Senator Abba Moro, Vice Chairman of the committee; Hon. Abubakar Fulata, Chairman of the House Committee on University Education; Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission; Prof. Andrew Haruna, Executive Secretary of the Committee of Vice Chancellors; Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board; Prof. Wahab Egbewole (SAN), Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin and Secretary General of the Association of West Africa; Dr (Mrs) Abiola Shotunde, Director/Chief Operating Officer of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit; Barr. Fred N. Emesiabum; Commander S.K. Agwai of the Nigerian Navy; and Captain E.J. Owolabi of the Nigerian Army.

The recognition highlights the strong bilateral ties between Nigeria and Sierra Leone, as well as their shared commitment to peace and security within the sub-region.