By Ismaeel Aleem
Vice President Kashim Shettima has hailed the ongoing three-day official visit of Colombian Vice President Francia Márquez as a pivotal moment for Nigeria-Colombia relations, describing it as a gateway to a new era of diplomatic and economic collaboration.
Speaking at a Gala Dinner held in honour of Márquez at the Presidential Villa on Sunday night, Shettima emphasised that the visit signifies a “fraternal union” poised to foster deeper political cooperation, bolder economic ventures, and richer cultural exchanges between the two nations.
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Márquez, accompanied by her spouse, Rafael Pinillo Ocoró, and a high-powered delegation of Colombian cabinet ministers, government officials, and business leaders, arrived in Abuja on Saturday.
The visit aims to strengthen ties through discussions on critical sectors, including trade, tourism, health, culture, and education.
Shettima, conveying President Bola Tinubu’s goodwill, underscored the shared humanity and destiny binding Nigeria and Colombia despite geographical distance.
“For 51 years, we have journeyed side by side, bound not only by diplomacy but by a deeper call of shared humanity,” he said, toasting to greater ties and a prosperous future for both countries.
In her remarks, Márquez, a woman of African descent, described the visit as strategic and historic, aimed at deepening the shared heritage and values between Nigeria and Colombia.
She pledged to leverage Colombia’s position in South America to boost trade with Africa and enhance diplomatic relations.
Márquez also extended condolences from the Colombian President to Nigeria over the recent passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, highlighted the gala as a celebration of the longstanding friendship between the two nations.
He noted the potential for mutual growth in key sectors by harnessing shared values and cultural richness, emphasising that the diplomacy extends beyond policy to include vibrant exchanges in arts, music, and cuisine.
The visit, which includes engagements with Nigerian counterparts, is expected to yield significant outcomes, planting “seeds of trust” for future prosperity, as Shettima noted.
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The gala, attended by top officials from both countries, showcased the vibrant cultural ties and set an optimistic tone for the bilateral discussions.
As Nigeria and Colombia embark on this renewed partnership, both nations are poised to transform their 51-year relationship into a dynamic force for mutual progress.
