The United States has named Rick Swart as the new Consul General at its Consulate in Lagos, ushering in a new phase of diplomatic engagement between the U.S. and Nigeria’s southern region.
Swart, a seasoned diplomat in the U.S. Foreign Service, officially assumed office on Wednesday. He takes over from JoEllen Gorg, who had served in an acting capacity since late 2024 following the departure of former Consul General Will Stevens.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelIn his first public remarks, Swart described his posting as both “an honour and an opportunity to strengthen one of the United States’ most vital partnerships in Africa.” He pledged to advance mutual goals across trade, governance, education, and regional security, saying he looked forward to “meeting communities, leaders, and changemakers across southern Nigeria.”
The Lagos Consulate, one of America’s busiest missions on the continent, covers 17 states and plays a critical role in managing economic diplomacy, consular affairs, and cultural exchange programmes.
Swart brings over 20 years of global experience to the post. He has previously held senior diplomatic positions, including Deputy Chief of Mission in Chad, Chargé d’Affaires in multiple African countries, and Deputy Consul General in Baghdad. His expertise spans conflict diplomacy, humanitarian aid, and governance reform.
Prior to joining the State Department, he worked in architecture and design across Asia and Africa and served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Mali experience he says shaped his “hands-on” approach to community engagement.
During the quiet handover, Swart thanked his predecessor, JoEllen Gorg, for what he called “steadfast leadership and commitment to advancing U.S.–Nigeria relations during a critical transition period.” Gorg, a veteran diplomat in her own right, had steered the mission for seven months and is widely credited with maintaining the momentum of bilateral cooperation.
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Swart’s arrival comes amid renewed U.S. emphasis on Africa as a strategic partner in global development and security. His leadership is expected to reinforce ongoing efforts in business facilitation, youth empowerment, and democratic governance.
As Nigeria continues to play a central role in West African affairs, all eyes will be on how the new Consul General steers diplomatic priorities in a region marked by both opportunity and complexity.
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