Nigeria and Colombia have reaffirmed their commitment to stronger diplomatic and economic ties as Colombian Vice President Francia Márquez continues her official visit to Abuja.
Vice President Kashim Shettima described the three-day visit as the beginning of a new chapter in relations between the two countries.
Márquez, who arrived in Abuja on Saturday with her spouse, Rafael Yerney Pinillo Ocoró, was accompanied by cabinet ministers, senior officials, and business leaders for high-level engagements.
Speaking at a gala dinner in her honour at the Presidential Villa, Shettima said the visit represents a new dawn for Nigeria-Colombia relations.
He emphasized the potential for deeper political cooperation, stronger economic partnerships, and cultural exchanges between the two nations.
According to him, the engagements will serve as a gateway to a fruitful partnership rooted in trust, dialogue, and prosperity.
Shettima also recalled that Nigeria and Colombia have maintained diplomatic relations for more than five decades, sharing values anchored in humanity and cultural heritage.
The Vice President extended President Bola Tinubu’s goodwill to the Colombian delegation, expressing optimism that the talks would yield meaningful outcomes.
In her remarks, Márquez described her trip as strategic and historic, stressing the shared heritage and values between Nigeria and Colombia.
She highlighted areas of possible collaboration including social justice, peace, tourism, health, culture, and education.
The Colombian Vice President further pledged her country’s commitment to boosting trade and diplomatic relations between Africa and South America.
She also extended condolences to Nigeria over the recent passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, on behalf of the Colombian President.
The gala dinner featured cultural performances from both countries and was attended by ministers and senior officials from Nigeria and Colombia.
Bello Wakili
