Maricel Cantillo reappointed as honourary consul of Colombia to Nigeria

Maricel Cantillo has been reappointed as the honorary consul of Colombia to Nigeria, extending her tenure for another four years.

According to statement by the consulate, Cantillo’s reappointment reinforces Colombia’s confidence in her diplomatic work and acknowledges her growing role in strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.

The announcement comes just months after the historic visit of Colombia’s vice-president to Nigeria. The visit focused on deepening cooperation in areas such as trade, culture, education, and people-to-people exchange.

During that visit, both nations committed to expanding engagement across multiple sectors, opening new doors for collaboration between Latin America and West Africa.

The statement noted that Cantillo has been at the center of this renewed diplomatic energy, worked closely with government institutions, the business community, and cultural organisations to promote Colombia’s presence in Nigeria while fostering mutual understanding.

Her efforts, the consulate added, have contributed to growing interest in trade partnerships, tourism development, and cultural diplomacy between both nations.

Her new four-year term is expected to further consolidate these gains while her continued leadership will help sustain the momentum created by recent high-level engagements and translate them into long-term cooperation.

The consulate is also expected to strengthen support for Colombian citizens residing or doing business in Nigeria, while helping to promote new areas of partnership.

Speaking on her reappointment, Cantillo said she looked forward to continuing to build the bridge between Colombia and Nigeria.

“It is an honour to be reappointed, and I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me. The relationship between Colombia and Nigeria is growing stronger, and I am committed to doing even more in the coming years,” she said.

“My goal is to deepen cultural exchange, support trade and investment opportunities, and strengthen the bond between our peoples. Both nations have so much in common from creativity, resilience, and a shared desire for progress.

“I look forward to working closely with government institutions, the private sector, and our communities to deepen this partnership.”