In spite of her tight schedule and short notice, Ambassador Gladys Quist-Adebiyi, Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, was receptive, frank and cordial. She has been on the forefront in the diplomatic efforts toward the fight against Ebola. This has received commendations from the host government and international organisations. A career diplomat with immense passion for her duties, she spoke to ABUBAKAR HASHIM on topical issues

Sierra Leone commemorated 54 years recently. What is your assessment so far?

It is a time for sober reflection due to the Ebola crisis. It has ravaged a country that was picking up after 10 years of civil war. However, there is presently a Post-Ebola plan, with a 4 pillar agenda to get the country back to development. President Koroma is working assiduously for this Post-Ebola recovery.

•Ambassador Gladys Quist-Adebiyi

What has been Nigeria’s relationship with Sierra Leone so far?

This special relationship dates back before 54 years. It’s been cordial so far. Nigeria has always been there. In terms of crisis and in terms of development. During the 10 years’ war, we lost over 1,000 soldiers who sacrificed their lives to bring back normalcy to this country. It’s a proactive relationship. We step in before the situation gets out of hand. We were the first country to come in aid to combat Ebola by donating $3.5 million in Accra, to the 3 affected countries. We have the largest contingent of doctors and medical volunteers under the African Union Ebola response strategic plan. We were the first to support the Ebola fight.

Moreso, during the last 2012 general elections, we empowered all the political parties in the country, in order to provide a level playing field. This resulted in a peaceful electoral process in 2012, which was internationally applauded to be free, fair and credible.

In these processes, we allowed Sierra Leone to be in the driver’s seat. Sierra Leone takes the lead in the deployment of medics at their own choice and destination. President Koroma has personally commended us in the fight against Ebola. We have instilled discipline in the fight due to our high professionalism and dedication.

So the relationship has been very proactive, cordial and developmental.

Quite recently, in February, the Nigerian High Commission in Sierra Leone received the Humanitarian Award from the International Board of African Diaspora, an organization formed in the United Kingdom, to promote development activities. The award was in recognition of our unique role in the fight against Ebola.

There is a new government in Nigeria. What are your comments on the new administration?

Governance is a continuum. We are apolitical. We give advice to government. Whatever government in power, we are duty-bound to serve. The good news is that there had been a smooth transition, which has become a model to Nigeria. This is a victory to the country and makes us proud to be the giant of Africa.