Nigeria, Colombia to Strengthen Ties as Shettima, Márquez Pledge New Diplomatic Era

Story written by Okafor joseph September 1,2025

Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed optimism that Nigeria’s engagements with Colombia will open a fresh chapter in diplomatic, economic, and cultural relations between the two nations.

He made this known on Sunday during a gala dinner at the Presidential Villa in Abuja held in honour of Colombian Vice President Francia Márquez, who is on a three-day official visit to Nigeria. Márquez arrived on Saturday with her spouse, Rafael Pinillo Ocoró, and a high-powered delegation comprising cabinet ministers, senior officials, and business leaders.

According to Shettima, the visit signals “a new dawn” for Nigeria-Colombia relations, promising deeper political cooperation, stronger economic ventures, and richer cultural exchanges.

“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 future generations will harvest.”

He noted that the two countries, which have maintained diplomatic ties for over 51 years, share not only diplomacy but also common values and humanity.

On her part, Vice President Márquez described the visit as both “strategic and historic,” affirming that Colombia seeks closer cooperation with Nigeria in areas such as peace, social justice, culture, tourism, education, and health. She emphasized Colombia’s commitment to using its position in South America to boost trade with Africa and deepen bilateral relations.

Márquez also extended condolences from Colombian 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), Ibrahim Hadejia, described the event as a symbolic “homecoming” for Márquez, highlighting the cultural and economic opportunities that closer Nigeria-Colombia ties could unlock.

The gala dinner also showcased Nigerian and Colombian music, art, and cuisine, reinforcing the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening bilateral ties