By; Julius Magona
Freetown, Sierra Leone – July 27, 2025
In a time when Sierra Leone’s political landscape is searching for fresh leadership and new ideas, many within the All People’s Congress (APC) are beginning to rally behind a name that’s gaining momentum for all the right reasons: Dr. Ibrahim Bangura. A respected academic, peacebuilder, and development expert, Dr. Bangura is being seen by a growing section of APC supporters as the kind of leader the party and the country needs right now.
Born in Kamakwie in the Northern Province and raised in central Freetown during the civil war, Dr. Bangura’s life story mirrors the resilience and determination of many Sierra Leoneans. He earned his undergraduate and master’s degrees from the University of Sierra Leone, studied International Development in Amsterdam, and later completed a PhD in Economics in Germany.
Over the past two decades, Dr. Bangura has built a powerful reputation across Africa as an expert in peacebuilding, disarmament, youth development, and governance reform. He has advised the European Union, United Nations, and African Union on critical security and development issues in over 40 countries. From Liberia to Somalia and Nigeria to South Sudan, he has helped shape programs that rebuild lives and stabilize post-conflict societies.
Locally, Dr. Bangura serves as an Associate Professor at Fourah Bay College where he teaches peace and conflict studies. He is also a senior partner at Transition International, a Netherlands-based firm working on recovery and governance solutions in fragile states.
Dr. Bangura is not just a theorist. He has walked the walk. His recent book, Youth-Led Social Movements and Peacebuilding in Africa, published by Routledge, digs deep into how young people can lead the way in transforming broken systems. His Oxford University fellowship in 2024–25 is further proof of the global recognition his work commands.
Why Dr. Bangura Should Be the APC’s Standard Bearer
The APC, once the dominant political force in Sierra Leone, now stands at a crossroads. After a string of electoral disappointments and internal divisions, the party urgently needs a credible, unifying, and forward-looking leader. Here’s why Dr. Ibrahim Bangura fits the bill:
Fresh Face with Clean Hands
Unlike many career politicians, Dr. Bangura is not tainted by corruption scandals or factionalism. He represents a clean break from the old guard and offers the APC a chance to reset its image—especially with young voters and independents.
Youth Connection
With nearly 60% of Sierra Leone’s population under 30, the next leader must understand youth frustrations and aspirations. Dr. Bangura’s work on youth empowerment and his research on youth-led change shows he understands their struggles and potential.
Global Mind, Local Roots
He blends international experience with deep local understanding. He’s worked in over 40 African countries but still lectures at Fourah Bay College and remains grounded in Sierra Leone’s realities.
Peace and Governance Credibility
At a time when national unity and post-election healing are crucial, Dr. Bangura’s background in peacebuilding, governance, and transitional justice makes him a bridge-builder, not a divider.
Technocratic Competence
His academic and professional background means he won’t just make promises—he has the skills to design and implement real solutions, from education reform to economic recovery.
The Road Ahead
As conversations intensify within the APC about who should lead the party into the 2028 general elections, many believe it’s time to think beyond traditional political lines. Dr. Ibrahim Bangura represents a new generation of leadership—educated, uncorrupted, inclusive, and globally respected.
In a country hungry for change, maybe the APC’s future lies in the hands of a man who has spent his life fixing broken systems, empowering the youth, and promoting peace.
If the party is serious about renewal, then the choice might already be clear.
