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Ministry of Internal Affairs, 14 Gloucester Street, Freetown (2026)

15/05/2026

Today 15th May 2026, the Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID) leadership headed by Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio Esq, under the Ministry of Internal Affairs is currently in Makeni city attending the inuguration ceremony for a new office marking the decentralization of immigration services in the Northern Regional Headquarter Town of Makeni to enhance service delivery.

This follows the opening of the Regional Office in Kenema on April 16th this year.

The event marks another new chapter in the history of the Sierra Leone Immigration Department, with the Ministry of Internal Affairs, led by AIG. Rtd. Morie Lengor Esq, spearheading the rollout of regional Immigration services to prevent long-distance travel to Freetown.

Minister Lengor Esq will serve as the keynote speaker.

Further details will be provided later.

MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS

14/05/2026

SIERRA LEONE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT HOSTS LIBERIA IMMIGRATION SERVICE DELEGATION TO STRENGTHEN BILATERAL COOPERATION ON BORDER SECURITY, JOINT MANAGEMENT & INTELLIGENCE SHARING

Freetown, Thursday 14th May 2026

In an effort to strengthen bilateral border cooperation and regional security, the Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID) has hosted the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) on a three-day working visit, along with courtesy calls on key government officials to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Chief Immigration Officer Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio Esq welcomed the delegation with traditional formalities and an exchange of pleasantries, followed by an introduction of key officials. He stated that the LIS delegation's study tour forms part of SLID's commitment to strengthening the already strong bilateral relationship between the two presidents.

Dr. Baio Esq, further stated that their visit was also to examine measures Sierra Leone has implemented to improve Immigration services and international security. He added that the LIS visit demonstrate that SLID is improving its service delivery, which inspires the CG to implement them in their own country.

The high-level visit also featured a guided tour of SLID headquarters, meetings at the Mano River Union Secretariat, the Liberian Embassy and familiarisation with key government officials.

It is however, increasingly observed that rising cross-border mobility poses complex security challenges, including irregular migration, human trafficking, smugglers activities, transnational crimes, document fraud, and broader vulnerabilities in border management.

Therefore, in response to these challenges, the visit focused on strengthening operational coordination and enhancing information sharing between the two sister institutions, expected to explore practical and sustainable approaches aimed at improving coordinated border management, strengthening institutional partnerships and enhancing operational effectiveness along shared borderlands.

In his address, LIS Commissioner General (CG) Mr. Elijah Rufus highlighted the need to work more closely together as he and his counterpart have taken the first step to bring the two institutions closer together to establish an MOU to enhance operational coordination and improve information-sharing mechanisms to strengthen border security and a safety net for their people along the border communities. He argued that achieving this requires effective border management which necessitates a collective approach. He noted that security threats in one country inevitably impact regional peace, stability, and development across the entire region.

The CG further underlined that stronger cooperation among regional Immigration bodies is essential to tackling emerging migration challenges and preventing transnational crimes. He maintains his commitment to strengthening regional cooperation, managing the border professionally, and improving migration governance as pillars for lasting peace and stability.

Subsequent to the CIO's welcome the delegation met with the Minister of Internal Affairs AIG. Rtd. Morie Lengor Esq who in his keynote address welcomed the delegation on behalf of His Excellency the President Brig. Rtd. Julius Maada Bio and the people of Sierra Leone.

Minister Lengor Esq, explained that their ultimate vision is to foster a Borderless Africa, making it easy for people to work and live anywhere on the continent to improve their lives. He noted that they have a long-standing relationship with Liberia, where their interests are intertwined that whatever affects the nation affects them too.

Ending his address, Minister Lengor Esq, committed to deepening the partnership between the two institutions for enhanced security and stability in the MRU and ECOWAS regions.

Commending the efforts of the team, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Internal Affairs Mr. Edward A. Ngaujah highlighted that these initiatives in establishing joint border strategies not only strengthen security but also align with ECOWAS protocols to address common threats.

The citation of the MOU by SLID Deputy Chief Immigration Officer Mr. Amadu Bah highlighted two significant areas for collaboration and cooperation and joint effort to address safety and security challenges within the immigration services.

Marking a pivotal step in bilateral ties, the SLID and LIS signed a landmark MOU, signed by the Minister of Internal Affairs, Chief Immigration Officer, and LIS Commissioner General to solidify Cooperation to improve regional border management and strengthen collaborative security efforts.

COMMUNICATIONS

05/05/2026

NEWS UPDATE
Tuesday 5th May, 2026

Dr. Simeon Owizz Koroma, Sierra Leone's Chief Forensic Expert and Pathologist, Office of the Medical Examiner, has been recognised and awarded the Outstanding Professional Excellence Award at the 10th Annual African Ovation Awards.

The certificate of Honor was presented to Dr. Koroma in a ceremony, at the Radisson Blu Hotel Aberdeen in Freetown, organised by the African Ovation Magazine - a national platform to celebrate outstanding excellence and best performance in Sierra Leone.

The Award celebrates and recognised Dr. Owizz Koroma for his professionalism, the highest standards of ethical conduct and integrity, and most importantly, his dedication to outstanding leadership in his field and his contributions to Sierra Leone.

In an interview with Dr. Owizz Koroma, he expressed gratitude for the recognition, noting that the recognition shows that the impact of his over 30 years of service is being felt and recognised across the country. He further noted that the award has motivated him to be more committed and work for the country. He expressed thanks to His Excellency the President Brig. Rtd. Dr. Julius Maada Bio for appointing him to a role responsible for conducting forensic autopsies and establishing investigative procedures for suspicious deaths.

While extending thanks and appreciation to the African Ovation Magazine for acknowledging and celebrating exemplary leadership and best practices on both the public and private sectors, he also extended his thanks to the Minister of Internal Affairs AIG. Rtd. Morie Lengor Esq, citing his instrumental leadership, guidance, and encouragement in navigating the numerous challenges encountered.

Furthermore, Dr. Koroma convened his appreciation for the management and staff of the Office of the Medical Examiner (OME) for their support which are vital in overcoming the many obstacles faced. He however, requested that the office be well-equipped to ensure they can deliver on their mandate effectively.

Beyond the immediate recognition, the award highlights Dr. Koroma's pivotal role in public service delivery.

COMMUNICATIONS

26/04/2026

SIERRA LEONE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT CONCLUDES INDUCTION TRAINING FOR NEW RECRUITS

In an effort to enhance institutional capacity, the Sierra Leone Immigration Department, under the leadership of the Chief Immigration Officer Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio Esq, has on 25th April 2026 concluded an induction training of 120 newly recruited immigration officers and assistant immigration officers to handle border management, security, and service delivery.

The training which took place at the Civil Service Training College on Tower Hill in Freetown was designed and conducted in two batches over a period of three days each, which aims to equip new recruits with comprehensive and essential knowledge and requisite practical skills needed for effective operational service delivery.

Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio Esq, the Chief Immigration Officer in his opening remarks, welcomed the new recruits and urged them to take the training seriously, highlighting its relevance to their inputs on organisational goals. He stated that their appointment to the department was an opportunity, and they should therefore work hard and focus on their career.

He went on that how successful they become as good immigration officers depends on their determination, noting that promotions and transfers are merit-based. He added that the trainees are enlisted into the department at a very critical and important time as the department is in transition, and encouraged them to join in contributing meaningfully towards taking the department to a new height.

Most importantly, Dr. Baio cautioned them to uphold discipline and integrity and further warned them against unprofessional conduct including unethical behaviour and corrupt practices.

"I urge you all to uphold standards and work hard as true ambassadors, for only hardwork will take you where you want to go." Dr. Baio concluded.

Mr. Swaray Junisa SLID's Director of Administration and Finance, in his welcome address, underscored the importance of the training and urged them to uphold professionalism at all times.
Added to that, Dir. Junisa lectured on Individual Annual Performance Appraisal, wherein he generically highlighted its importance in the civil service. He however, warned against the sanctions and penalties of IPAS and urged them to treat the IPAS with the seriousness it deserves. He further presented on SLID's 2026-2030 Strategic Plan alongside Mr. James Kanneh, the Director of passport.

Meanwhile, the Director of Coporate Strategy and Administration at HRMO Mr. Ibrahim Kamara made an explicit presentation on the revised Civil Service Code and Rules. Also the Deputy Director Prevention Department from ACC Mr. Samuel Marah took trainees through cultivating an ethical culture and emphasised that it requires moving beyond compliance to embed integrity, stewardship, and accountability into daily decision-making of every public servant.

Moreover, Madam Zainab A. Bangaura, a hired consultant and CEO of Premier Hospitality Services, delivered a concise presentation on quality customer service, a concept she noted will be with the officers as they carry out their roles and responsibilities. She stated that professional and friendly service enhances the country's image globally, while poor service can discourage travel, investment, and partnership. She explained that quality customer service improves efficiency and productivity and operational efficiency, adding that customer service is a powerful tool for national development.

Head of Foreign Nationals Unit Mrs. Patricia M. Kargobai, in her presentation on the use of digital technology in the management of Foreign Nationals Unit, core mandate, functions, achievements, and challenges, stressed the key role foreign nationals play in nation-building, noting that their interventions must be conducted professionally and humanely.

SLID Commander at Lungi International Airport Mr. Harry Cowan made his submission on the core mandate, achievements, and challenges of SLID at the Lungi intl. Airport, and emphasised on SLID's integrals role in national security and integrity.

Added to that, other senior officials heading varrious units facilitated sessions on their roles and responsibilities, providing trainees with an in-depth understanding of the department and helping them gain comprehensive knowledge.

The session was interactive and engaging with participants actively involved in questions and answers, expressing a renewed commitment to service delivery.

COURTESY OF SLID COMMUNICATIONS

23/04/2026

SIERRA LEONE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT SIGN MOU WITH ANTI-CORRUPTION COMMISSION TO STRENGTHEN INSTITUTIONAL INTEGRITY

Freetown, Thursday 23rd April 2026 - As part of efforts to transform the Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID) into a more reliable, credible, and service-oriented institution, the Chief Immigration Officer Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio Esq, has signed an MOU with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to strengthen collaboration in promoting integrity, transparency, and accountability in the Sierra Leone Immigration service delivery.

Speaking on the rationale behind the MOU, the Chief Immigration Officer Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio Esq, described the signing as a historic gesture of collaboration, noting that pillar two of the SLID Transformation Plan 2026-2030 is anchored on transparency, integrity, and accountability. He pointed out that their overarching goal is to restore public confidence and trust, which involves collaborating with the ACC to restore the image of the institution, stressing the need for public education as a fundamental tool in educating staff on issues relating to corruption, as part of their transformation drive. Furthermore, he solicited the support of ACC towards corruption related activities, adding that they are engaged in a similar venture with other sister security institutions as part of their groundbreaking strategy to implement the SLID Transformation Plan.

CIO Dr. Baio Esq, further used the occasion to announce that SLID has embarked on a nationwide regional decentralization process, as Immigration services have been decentralized in Kenema including passports, emergency travel certificates and other immigration services. He further noted that they are on the verge for digital reforms, and passport application advancement in the regions, specifically with initiatives to make passport services more functional at regional/district levels for easy access by residents in the regions.

Dr. Baio Esq, expressed enthusiasm, looking forward to a more productive relationship and partnership to help accomplish his vision for SLID.

In his remarks, the Deputy Commisioner of ACC Mr. Augustine Foday Ngobie welcomed SLID in achieving another milestone in the process of delivering service for the people of Sierra Leone. He expressed willingness to collaborate with partner institutions to fight against corruption, citing that SLID is tasked with a very crucial responsibility of issuing passports and managing the reputation of the country's borders, and therefore, they are referred to as the face at every entering border point of this country. He lauded SLID for taking the bold step to partner with them to ensure integrity is exhibited by their staff to restore the reputation of the institution. He reassured them that they would do everything humanly possible to work with their staff to prevent the occurrence of corruption and maintain the integrity of the institution.

The citation of the MOU read by SLID Legal Representative Gladys Gbondo, provides a structured framework through which both ACC and SLID will collaborate in areas such as joint development of integrity tools, reporting and protection mechanisms, transparency and public engagement, preventive systems and integrity and audits and institutional governance and reform among other areas.

In conclusion, the MOU signed by the CIO Dr. Baio Esq, and the ACC Deputy Commissioner Mr. Augustine Foday Ngobie is a significant step towards strengthening integrity within the public institutions and improving service delivery to the people of Sierra Leone, as they believed that through partnership, they will be able to improve not only their internal systems but also rebuild public confidence in the Immigration department.

COMMUNICATIONS

21/04/2026

HAPPENING NOW
Tuesday 21st April 2026

The Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID), under the leadership of the Chief Immigration Officer Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio is currently conducting induction training for a staff of 120 newly recruited immigration officers and assistant immigration officers at the Civil Service Training College on Tower Hill in Freetown.

The training is segmented into two batches (each for three days), focused on providing structured training that gives new recruits officers the knowledge and skills needed for effective job performance. The training is also ensuring they understand the department's rules and regulations, the ethical culture required of them within the department, performance management system its workability in the Civil Service and their roles and responsibilities with regards to the ex*****on of their duties among other areas while setting clear goals.

Follow for details regarding the training.

COMMUNICATIONS

17/04/2026

SIERRA LEONE IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT MAKES A NEW WAVE OF TRANSFORMATION WITH REGIONAL OFFICE IN KENEMA

The Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID) has experienced a significant transformation through the modernization efforts of its leadership, with Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio, spearheading initiatives through the Minister of Internal Affairs AIG. Rtd. Morie Lengor Esq, which effort is to align and represent the immigration services in Sierra Leone with international standards.

According to CIO Dr. Tiffa Baio, the provincial expansion and launch of immigration services in provincial headquarters including Bo, Kenema, and Makeni, equipped with biometric data processing tools and vehicles is to reduce the burden on citizens travelling to Freetown for passport and other immigration services.The vehicles he noted, are to ensure effective border control and efficient public service delivery to residents and its environs.

AIG. Rtd. Morie Lengor Esq, the Minister of Internal Affairs, served as the keynote speaker and officially commissioned the decentralised passport services while unveiling the operational vehicles praised President Bio"s continuous support for such a milestone achievement in the history of SLID. He urged the management and staff to deligently serve the people with purpose and protect the image of the institution's long-term integrity. He also noted that the new office will decentralize resident and work permit services, making them more accessible, efficient, and compliant nationwide, rather than forcing residents to travel to Freetown for immigration services.

Furthermore, Minister Lengor Esq, however noted that the office which serves the Eastern regions, forms part of the government's commitment modernization drive to enhance public service delivery, adding that the vehicles and motorbikes are to support the rollout and strengthen the nationwide enforcement of the Unified Resident and Work Permit system across the country. He further announced that plans are underway to establish more immigration offices in Bo, Makeni, and Portloko.The Minister emphasised that foreign nationals are to use the Unified Resident and Work Permit system, noting that nationwide compliance inspections are underway.

Dr. Baio further echoed that upon assuming office, he articulated his vision of transforming the Department into a modern institution which includes strengthening border security, the nationwide enforcement of a new biometric resident and work permit system among others. This he noted is fully digital and aims to enhance security and efficiency. He added that the department is not only digitising services, decentralizing passport insurance, but reforming into a paramilitary structure. He went on that through the new system a client will now choose where they will collect their passport, adding that the department has deployed new vehicles and motorbikes to ensure compliance with these new digital standards. Dr. Baio showered praises on the Minister of Internal Affairs for his oversight and guidance in ensuring his vision became reality.

Handing over the keys of the vehicles to the Regional Directors, CIO Dr. Baio reiterated that the initiative represents a significant effort to increase the visibility of Immigration services in their respective regions, with the vehicles to intesify their operations. He encouraged them to carry themselves well while using the vehicles and do on
the-spot-checks, noting that this is the only way to ascertain authority and give justification for whatever they may intend to request from the government. He further urged them to use the vehicles for their intended purposes and meet the expectations of the public.

In his remarks, the Mayor of Kenema City Council, Mr. Thomas Karimu Baio said he is very proud to see a new immigration office with fully digitalized equipment marking a major Decentralisation achievement to residents of kenema and its environs. He said the service brings essential document processing to the Eastern region, significantly reducing travel costs and challenges for citizens needing passport and other immigration services. "The new SLID office on Maada Bio Street inside the city Council building reflects a commitment to bringing government services to the people, aligning with broader national goals of making services more accessible ". he noted.

Other key stakeholders who spoke at the event described the historic landmark as timely, underscoring the vital role of immigration services and describing the department as the face of Sierra Leone.

A vote of thanks delivered by one of the Immigration staff Madam Sia Helen Mattia underscored the vision and commitment of the CIO Dr. Baio to see that SLID meets international standards.

The event concluded with the official launch of the new SLID office, the unveiling of operational vehicles, and the cutting of the ribbon by the Minister of Internal Affairs, the CIO, the Mayor of Kenema City Council and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Internal Affairs Mr. Edward A. Ngaujah who also served as the chairman of the occasion.

COMMUNICATIONS

16/04/2026

🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
HAPPENING NOW
in Kenema City, Eastern province

Thursday 16th April, 2026
City Council Hall, Kenema City

As part of the modernization mandate by the Chief Immigration Officer Dr. Moses Tiffa Baio through the Government of Sierra Leone to bring Immigration services to provincial headquarters, the Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID) is set to hold a launching ceremony for the Decentralisation of passport services and the unveiling of operational vehicles in Kenema city to improve service delivery for residents of Kenema and its environs.

AIG. Rtd. Morie Lengor Esq, the Minister of Internal Affairs will serve as the keynote speaker, commission the Immigration services and unveil its operational vehicles at the ceremony.

These vehicles will also support the rollout and boost the nationwide enforcement of the Unified Resident and Work Permit system.

Further details regarding this story are expected.

COMMUNICATIONS

Further details regarding this story are expected.

COMMUNICATIONS

14/04/2026

Mandatory Registration of Foreign Nationals-Nationwide Enforcement Begins

See the Press Release below

03/02/2026

MINISTER OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS VISITS PORT LOKO CORRECTIONAL CENTRE AFTER THE FIRE INCIDENT

Following the recent fire outbreak incidents at the Port Loko Correctional facility on the 30th January 2026, the Minister of Internal Affairs AIG. Rtd. Morie Lengor Esq, was accompanied by the Director General of the Sierra Leone Correctional Service (SLCS) Mr. Joseph J Senesie to assess the burnt facility, for a redress mechanism and to express thanks and appreciation to the security apparatus and other senior government officials for their swift intervention in restoring order in the facility.

During the visit, the DG of SLCS Mr. Senesie briefed the Minister about key details regarding the incident and the response by security authorities, such as the SLCS, SLP, the RSLAF and support by other security apparatus, government officials and community stakeholders who acted swiftly to manage the situation. He however, commended their efforts, noting that their interventions were beyond measures.

According to AIG Joseph I Lahai Regional Commander North West Region Port Loko District, the fire outbreak was led by swift security intervention. He explained that he ordered military reinforcements for immediate deployment in the area, adding that community support and subsequent visits by authorities, as during the chaos inmates attempted to break through gates to escape, but with the intervention of security apparatus, they were able to restore sanity, as no deaths were reported, inmates were unable to escape though few sustained minor injuries. He further assured the Minister that sanity had been restored and the District remained calm and quiet.

Speaking during the visit, Minister Lengor Esq, on behalf of His Excellency the President Brig. Rtd. Julius Maada Bio commended the swift actions of the security officials, especially the SLP and RSLAF senior government officials including the resident minister, the mayor and other community stakeholders for their institutional cooperation and support to restore safety and sanity to the community.

He further acknowledged the sacrifices made by the SLCS personnel and encouraged them to continue to demonstrate professionalism in their job and in the interest of the Country. He also oriented and encouraged inmates about following rules and maintaining safety. He assured that government is putting modalities in place to address some of their challenges, noting that they should behave properly and serve their jail terms and report anyone who want to insight violence.

Though the cause of the incidents remain unclear, which left properties destroyed, the Minister's visit to the facility underscored government commitment in ensuring that they are working on a series of measures to ensure that the situation has returned to normal.

While acknowledging the outstanding leadership of DG Senesie during the incident, Minister Lengor Esq, expressed sentiments regarding the need for continued, advanced and coordinated support from security apparatuses to his Ministry's Agencies and to tackle complex security challenges to maintain peace and stability at all times. He further stressed that the expertise of security forces is crucial for national peace and security and that they must use advanced tactics to anticipate and handle security uncertainties.

Conclusively, the resident minister of North West Ambassador Umaru Bundu Wurie and the Mayor of Port Loko Alie Badara Tarawalie, alongside other community stakeholders also worked with security personnel and firm actions were taken to have the situation under control.

The Mayor and the Permanent Secretory of Port Loko Mr. Augustine Fogbei further acknowledged Minister Lengor's exceptional leadership and hands-on approach in taking time to visit the scene and highlighted key elements for supporting the enforcement of regulations.

COMMUNICATIONS

Ministry of Internal Affairs

15/05/2026

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Monday	08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday	08:00 - 17:00
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