PHOTOS: US consulate holds reception ceremony for new consul general

The United States consulate general held a reception ceremony for Rick Swart, new consul general, on Thursday in Lagos.

Swart arrived in Lagos on July 16, taking over from JoEllen Gorg who led the consulate in an interim capacity over the last seven months.

Will Stevens, immediate past consul general, completed his tour of duty in November 2024.

As consul general in Lagos, Swart is the senior US government representative to 17 states in southern Nigeria.

He is responsible for leading and overseeing US government activities that deepen trade and investment ties, expand people-to-people connections, and advance the full range of priorities in the US-Nigeria bilateral relationship across the region.

Speaking at his reception ceremony, Swart said the US will continue to be a strong, long term partner with Nigeria.

“And now, as I begin this new chapter, I’m excited to focus on expanding the commercial engagement between the United States and Nigeria and fostering sustainable growth and trade, investment, and innovation,” he said.

“Nigeria’s dynamic economy and youthful entrepreneurial spirit offer incredible opportunities for collaboration. I look forward to working with US and Nigerian businesses to further unlock that potential.”

Guests at the reception ceremony included Tony Elumelu, chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA); Paul Adefarasin, senior pastor of the House on the Rock church; Atedo Peterside, founder of Stanbic IBTC Bank; Steve Ayorinde, former Lagos commissioner for tourism, arts, and culture; diplomatic leaders and government officials.

Here are photos from the event.