Nigeria, Colombia set to open new diplomatic chapter — VP Shettima
By Kunle Sanni –
Vice President Kashim Shettima has said Nigeria’s three-day bilateral engagements with Colombia will usher in a new era of cooperation, describing the visit of Colombian Vice President Francia Márquez as a “gateway to deeper political, economic, and cultural ties.”
Speaking at a gala dinner held at the Presidential Villa on Sunday night in honour of Mrs. Márquez and her delegation, Shettima said the visit reflects a shared commitment to building stronger relations.
“This historic visit and tomorrow’s engagements will be the gateway to a new chapter,” Shettima said. “Nigeria is inspired to plant the seeds of trust, water them with dialogue, and nurture them into fruits of prosperity that our children and grandchildren shall one day harvest.”
He emphasized that Nigeria and Colombia, which have enjoyed diplomatic relations for 51 years, are bound by “a deeper call of shared humanity, interest, and future.”
The Colombian Vice President described her trip as strategic and historic, pledging to strengthen cooperation in social justice, peace, tourism, health, culture, education, and trade. She also conveyed condolences from President Gustavo Petro to the government and people of Nigeria on the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, noted that the engagements highlight not just diplomatic ties but also cultural exchanges that celebrate the values and shared heritage of both countries.
The Colombian delegation, which includes cabinet ministers, senior officials, and business leaders, will participate in high-level meetings aimed at expanding trade and bilateral cooperation.
