The United States Mission in Nigeria has officially welcomed Rick Swart as the new Consul General in Lagos. Swart arrived on July 16, taking over leadership of the Consulate and assuming responsibility for U.S. diplomatic efforts across 17 southern states in Nigeria.

As Consul General, Swart serves as the senior U.S. government representative for the region. His duties include advancing key U.S.-Nigeria priorities such as economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and regional security.

Strengthening U.S.-Nigeria Relations

In a statement following his arrival, Swart expressed deep enthusiasm for his new assignment. “It is an honor to serve in Nigeria,” he said. “I look forward to traveling across the region, connecting with the people, embracing their culture, and advancing our shared mission of making both our countries stronger, safer, and more prosperous.”

Swart emphasized his commitment to deepening diplomatic engagement between the United States and Nigeria, especially in areas of trade, investment, and people-to-people relationships.

Transition of Leadership at the Lagos Consulate

Swart succeeds JoEllen Gorg, who had led the Consulate General in an acting capacity for the past seven months. Gorg stepped in after the previous Consul General, Will Stevens, completed his tenure in November 2024.

In acknowledging Gorg’s service, Swart remarked, “I thank JoEllen for her remarkable leadership and for the excellent work she has done in strengthening our close partnership with the people of southern Nigeria.”

Swart also noted his intention to collaborate closely with Ambassador David Greene Mills and the staff of the U.S. Embassy in Abuja. “Together, we will continue building on the important diplomatic efforts that unite our two nations,” he stated.

A Seasoned Diplomat With Global Experience

Rick Swart brings more than two decades of diplomatic experience to his new post. He is a career member of the U.S. Senior Foreign Service and has served in multiple regions, including Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.

Prior to arriving in Nigeria, Swart served as Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Chad. His prior assignments also include roles as Chargé d’Affaires ad interim in Chad, the Republic of Congo, and Burundi. He was also the Deputy Consul General in Baghdad, Iraq.

Additionally, Swart served as a Humanitarian Assistance Officer for Africa at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations in Geneva, a role that placed him at the center of international relief efforts across the continent.

Diplomatic Service Spanning Continents

Swart’s diplomatic career has taken him to global cities such as London, Manila, and Dubai. Within the United States, he has worked in Washington, D.C., where he focused on policy coordination for sub-Saharan Africa, dealing with a range of cross-cutting regional issues.

His global assignments have equipped him with a strong background in international negotiations, development aid, crisis management, and consular operations—skills that will be critical in his new role in Nigeria.

A Background Rooted in Public and Private Service

Before joining the U.S. Department of State in 2002, Swart worked in the private sector, managing architectural and design projects across Asia and Africa. His career in design provided him with firsthand insight into development challenges and opportunities in emerging regions.

Earlier in his life, Swart served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Mali. This experience not only helped shape his understanding of West Africa but also laid the foundation for his long-standing commitment to cross-cultural engagement and community development.

Looking Ahead to Regional Engagement

Swart’s arrival signals a renewed momentum for U.S. diplomatic efforts in southern Nigeria. The United States remains focused on expanding cooperation with Nigeria in key sectors, including energy, education, technology, public health, and regional security.

Under Swart’s leadership, the U.S. Consulate in Lagos is expected to strengthen outreach to civil society, state governments, and local communities. His goal is to build upon the work of his predecessors while forging new pathways for bilateral collaboration.

As Swart begins his tenure, expectations are high for a continued deepening of U.S.-Nigeria ties in the southern region. His background, expertise, and stated commitment to engagement provide a strong foundation for the next chapter in diplomatic relations between the two nations.