The statement reflects a deepening partnership between the two nations, driven by shared heritage, mutual interests, and a commitment to collaborative growth across multiple sectors.

Márquez, accompanied by her spouse, Mr. Rafael Yerney Pinillo Ocoró, cabinet ministers, senior government officials, and business leaders, arrived in Abuja on Saturday for a three-day official visit. 

The delegation’s itinerary includes bilateral meetings and plenary sessions focused on governance, trade, agriculture, energy, education, security, and women’s empowerment, aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic ties.

Speaking at the gala dinner, Shettima described the visit as a “new dawn” and proof of an impending era of enhanced cooperation. 

“The visit is proof that Nigeria and Colombia are about to enter an era of fraternal union that would create deeper political cooperation, bolder economic ventures, and richer people-to-people exchanges,” he said, conveying the goodwill of President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian people. 

He emphasized the shared humanity binding the nations, noting that for 51 years, they have journeyed side by side, separated only by geography despite oceans and indirect communications.

Shettima raised a toast to “greater ties between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Colombia,” expressing hope that the engagements would yield prosperous outcomes for future generations. 

“More than ever, Nigeria is inspired to plant the seeds of trust, water them with dialogue, and nurture them into fruits of prosperity that our children and grandchildren shall one day harvest,” he added.

In her response, Vice President Márquez, who is of African descent, called the visit “strategic and historic,” highlighting the common values and heritage that unite the two countries. 

She outlined priorities for collaboration in social justice, peace, tourism, health, culture, and education, pledging Colombia’s role in leveraging its South American position to boost trade between the continent and Africa, as well as enhance diplomatic relations with Nigeria. 

Márquez also extended condolences from Colombian President Gustavo Petro to Nigeria over the recent passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

The gala dinner, attended by ministers and top officials from both nations, featured cultural showcases celebrating Nigerian and Colombian traditions in music, art, and cuisine. 

Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, described the event as a “homecoming” for the Colombian delegation, aimed at rekindling longstanding friendships. 

He stressed the untapped potentials in shared values that could transform key economic sectors if fully harnessed, extending diplomacy beyond policy to vibrant cultural exchanges.

This visit signals a pivotal moment in Nigeria-Colombia relations, established diplomatically since 1974, with potential for a Nigeria-Colombia Business Forum to explore opportunities in agriculture, manufacturing, aviation, and energy.