Colombian Vice President Arrives In Abuja On Official Visit To Nigeria

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Colombian Vice President Arrives In Abuja On Official Visit To Nigeria

Nigeria News
01.09.2025
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Colombian Vice President Arrives In Abuja On Official Visit To Nigeria

The Vice President of the Republic of Colombia, Her Excellency Francia Márquez, has officially arrived in Abuja, Nigeria, for a significant 3-day diplomatic visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between both nations. The visit marks an important milestone in the diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Colombia, highlighting their commitment to deeper collaboration in key areas of mutual interest.

Her Excellency Francia Márquez, accompanied by her husband Mr. Rafael Yerney Pinillo Ocoró, was warmly received at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. The Colombian delegation was welcomed by top Nigerian government officials, including:

Chief Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology
Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs
Dr. Mariya Mahmud Bunkure, Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory (FCT)
Mrs. Zubaida Umar, Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)
Other senior government officials and dignitaries

The high-profile reception underscored the importance Nigeria attaches to its diplomatic engagement with Colombia, signaling the readiness of both countries to take their relationship to new heights.

The official visit is strategically designed to enhance Nigeria-Colombia relations and foster cooperation in a wide range of sectors. Key objectives include:

Strengthening governance and democratic institutions
Boosting bilateral trade and investments
Enhancing collaboration in agriculture, energy, and education
Expanding cooperation in security, technology, and innovation
Promoting women empowerment and gender equality
Encouraging cultural exchange and tourism development

These focus areas demonstrate both countries’ commitment to fostering a mutually beneficial partnership that will contribute to socio-economic growth.

Colombian Vice President Arrives In Abuja On Official Visit To Nigeria

The Vice President is not alone in her mission. She is accompanied by Colombian cabinet ministers, senior government officials, and business leaders who will engage in strategic discussions with their Nigerian counterparts. This presents an opportunity for practical collaboration across multiple sectors, particularly in manufacturing, aviation, trade, and agriculture.The delegation’s presence emphasizes Colombia’s commitment to forging sustainable partnerships that will extend beyond diplomacy into tangible economic and cultural development initiatives.

One of the major highlights of the visit is the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in several strategic areas. These include:

Women empowerment and gender equity programs
Trade and investment promotion
Aviation cooperation for improved connectivity
Agricultural collaboration to enhance food security
Manufacturing and industrial development
Promotion of arts, culture, and heritage exchange

These agreements are expected to open new opportunities for Nigeria and Colombia, creating a framework for sustainable development and bilateral prosperity.

The Colombian Vice President’s visit will feature several key events designed to deepen relations and create business opportunities:

Plenary Session: A high-level engagement involving both Vice Presidents to review diplomatic and economic cooperation.
Nigeria-Colombia Business Forum: A platform where business leaders from both countries will explore partnerships and trade deals.
Bilateral Government Meetings: Focused discussions between Nigerian and Colombian officials to address policy, trade, and development priorities.
Side Events: Specialized meetings hosted by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment with Colombian business executives.
Artificial Intelligence Summit: A groundbreaking forum highlighting the role of technology and innovation in driving economic development and digital transformation.

These events are strategically aligned to expand cooperation and unlock economic growth opportunities for both countries.

This visit symbolizes a new chapter in the diplomatic history of Nigeria and Colombia. By focusing on governance, trade, and cultural diplomacy, the two countries aim to solidify their relations and build enduring ties that benefit their citizens.Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, and Colombia, one of Latin America’s emerging economies, share common aspirations for sustainable development and global influence. Strengthening ties between both nations holds great potential for mutual growth and international cooperation.

Nigerians and Colombians alike have expressed optimism about the outcomes of this visit. Many expect that the agreements and discussions will translate into real improvements in trade, investment, job creation, and cultural exchanges.Stakeholders in the business and agricultural sectors have particularly welcomed the opportunity for enhanced collaboration, noting that it could lead to increased exports, market expansion, and innovation-driven growth.

The arrival of Vice President Francia Márquez in Abuja marks a significant step towards building a stronger partnership between Nigeria and Colombia. With a focus on diplomacy, trade, technology, and cultural ties, this official visit is set to yield long-term benefits for both nations. As Nigeria and Colombia sign agreements, engage in high-level meetings, and host business forums, the relationship between both countries will undoubtedly move into a new phase of strategic cooperation and mutual prosperity.

Table of Contents

Who is the Vice President of Colombia?

The current Vice President of Colombia is Francia Márquez Mina, a lawyer, environmental activist, and human rights defender. She assumed office on August 7, 2022, becoming the first Afro-Colombian woman to hold the vice presidency. Márquez is widely celebrated for her grassroots activism, particularly her fight against illegal mining and environmental degradation in Colombia.

Francia Márquez Family

Francia Márquez was born on December 1, 1981, in Yolombó, Cauca, Colombia. She hails from a humble background and is a proud single mother of two children. Her family history is deeply rooted in Afro-Colombian heritage and resilience. Despite economic challenges, Márquez prioritized education and social justice, raising her children while simultaneously fighting for the rights of marginalized communities in Colombia.

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Her partner is Rafael Yerney Pinillo Ocoró, who often accompanies her to official events and represents a strong pillar of support in her political journey.

Francia Márquez Net Worth

As of 2025, Francia Márquez’s estimated net worth is around $1 million to $2 million USD. Most of her wealth comes from her career in politics, her role as Vice President, and international recognition for her activism. Before entering politics, she received awards such as the Goldman Environmental Prize in 2018, which spotlighted her on the global stage. Unlike many traditional politicians, Márquez is known for her modest lifestyle and continued advocacy for equity and justice.

What Did Francia Márquez Do?

Before becoming Vice President, Francia Márquez gained global attention as a courageous activist. She led several campaigns against illegal mining in the Cauca region, demanding environmental protections and community rights. Her activism earned her death threats, yet she continued to speak boldly against exploitation and systemic inequality. She later studied law and entered politics, aligning with President Gustavo Petro to form a government focused on social justice, climate change, women’s empowerment, and equality.

How Much Does the President of Colombia Make?

The salary of the President of Colombia is approximately 34 million Colombian Pesos per month, which is about $8,000 to $9,000 USD monthly depending on exchange rates. This makes the annual salary around $100,000 to $110,000 USD. As Vice President, Francia Márquez earns slightly less, but her position still places her among the top earners in the Colombian government structure.

Francia Márquez has redefined leadership in Colombia through her inspiring journey from grassroots activism to the vice presidency. Her family background, strong values, and dedication to human rights continue to resonate with millions worldwide. Beyond her net worth and official title, she remains a symbol of hope, resilience, and change in Latin America.