Tinubu pledges swift action on Nigeria-Colombia bilateral deals

By Kunle Sanni –

President Bola Tinubu has assured Colombia of the speedy implementation of all bilateral agreements aimed at boosting trade, aviation, and diplomatic relations between both nations.

Speaking at the State House in Abuja on Monday while hosting Colombian Vice President Francia Márquez, Tinubu said Nigeria is committed to building new international partnerships to meet the demands of shifting global economic and political realities.

The President noted that agreements recently signed under the supervision of Vice President Kashim Shettima would receive prompt attention, adding that aviation and consular arrangements similar to those between Nigeria and Brazil would be extended to Colombia.

“I believe the Vice President and his team have done the job. Our business opportunities with Colombia have already been enhanced. I support every aspect you have agreed on,” Tinubu said. He urged Colombian businesses to explore opportunities in Nigeria’s oil, gas, and agricultural sectors, citing the country’s youthful workforce as an advantage.

Vice President Shettima described Márquez’s visit as a step toward rekindling ties between Africa and Latin America, disrupted centuries ago by slavery and colonialism.

Márquez, the first Black Vice President of Colombia, called for deeper cooperation in aviation, political consultations, cultural exchange, and trade, adding that direct flights between both countries are already under discussion.

She emphasized shared values of social justice, gender equality, and inclusivity, while praising Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa.

Also present at the meeting were Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila; Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar; Coordinating Minister of Finance Wale Edun; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Jumoke Oduwole; and Minister of Women Affairs Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim.