President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to strengthen international partnerships and adapt foreign policy to global trends in trade, politics, and culture.
Speaking at the State House in Abuja on Monday during a courtesy visit by Colombia’s Vice President, Francia Márquez, the President emphasized that changing global dynamics demand new alliances to promote shared prosperity, Mediaplusng.com reports.
Tinubu assured the visiting delegation, which included top government, business, and diplomatic officials, that Nigeria will mirror some of its agreements with Brazil in the areas of aviation and consular services with Colombia. He added that all bilateral discussions supervised by Vice President Kashim Shettima will receive urgent attention.
According to Mediaplusng.com, Tinubu noted that Nigeria’s youthful population offers a skilled workforce and a large market that investors from Colombia can explore, particularly in oil, gas, and agriculture.
“I believe the Vice President and his team have done a good job. Our business opportunities with Colombia are already growing. Agreements on aviation and stronger diplomatic relations will be accelerated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” he said.
Vice President Shettima also described the visit as an opportunity to revive historical ties disrupted by slavery and colonialism, while positioning both countries for cultural and economic cooperation.
In her remarks, Vice President Márquez said she was proud to lead the Colombian delegation to Nigeria, noting that shared heritage and cultural similarities will drive stronger relations. She listed aviation, visa facilitation, political consultations, trade, and cultural exchanges as key areas of interest.
“We have discussed the possibility of direct flights between Nigeria and Colombia. This will help deepen our partnership and bring lasting benefits in areas such as social justice, gender equality, and inclusivity,” she stated.
The meeting was attended by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar; Coordinating Minister of Finance and Economy, Wale Edun; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; and Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim.
READ ALSO: Fight Against Banditry: ONSA Counters El-Rufai’s Allegations
