Bio told Lamina that he is joining the government at an extremely difficult time which requires extra efforts to help tackle the challenges ahead.

The president also said that he has created a leadership environment that is supportive, as he assured Lamina of his full support and guidance at all times.

In reply, Tamba Lamina expressed his sincere gratitude to the president for appointing him to serve in his Cabinet.

He said that performance has always been his strength, adding that he is looking forward to bringing additional value to the Cabinet.

Lamina said that working together with the president and colleague ministers, he will ensure that the New Direction is successful and beneficial to the people of Sierra Leone.

He assured the president that he will provide professional leadership at the Ministry of Local Government, based on respect for the Rule of Law, respect for Paramount Chiefs, and delivery of services through collaboration and consultation.

Tamba Lamina added that decision-making in his ministry will be based on evidence as required by the New Direction.