Colombia becomes 2nd South American country to sign MoU with Nigeria in one week
Colombia has become the second South American nation within a week to formalize a diplomatic agreement with Nigeria, as both countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on political consultations.
The agreement was signed during a high-level visit by Colombia’s Vice-President, Francia Márquez, to Nigeria, marking a significant step toward strengthening bilateral ties across sectors such as aviation, trade, and social development.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Márquez revealed that discussions were underway with Nigerian aviation stakeholders on establishing direct flights between the two countries—an initiative she described as a foundation for long-term partnership.
“We have had a meeting with the business leaders in aviation on the need to start direct flights to Colombia,” Márquez said, adding that the initiative reflects the countries’ shared cultural heritage and mutual interests.
The MoU was signed at a bilateral meeting and business forum attended by top officials from both sides, including Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, who represented the Nigerian government at the signing.
President Tinubu welcomed the Colombian delegation and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to implementing the agreements reached. He also expressed interest in replicating existing bilateral frameworks Nigeria shares with Brazil—especially in aviation and consular matters—in its relationship with Colombia.
“Our business opportunities with Colombia have already been enhanced. I support every aspect that you have agreed on,” Tinubu said. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will accelerate diplomatic and technical arrangements to strengthen this partnership.”
Vice-President Márquez further emphasized Colombia’s dedication to social justice, gender equality, and inclusive development—areas she said align with Nigeria’s national priorities.
Among the Nigerian officials present were Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole; and Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim.
The proposed direct flight route is expected to boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between Africa and Latin America, signaling a deepening of South-South cooperation.
