The United States Mission in Nigeria has announced the appointment of Rick Swart as the new Consul General at the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos. Swart officially began his tenure on July 16, succeeding JoEllen Gorg, who had served in an acting capacity over the past seven months.
Gorg had been overseeing the consulate's operations following the departure of former Consul General Will Stevens in November 2024.
According to a statement released by the U.S. Mission, Swart will serve as the most senior U.S. Government representative for the southern region of Nigeria, with responsibilities spanning 17 states.
The statement further elaborated on his role: "He leads U.S. government efforts in deepening trade and investment partnerships, enhancing people-to-people ties, and advancing the full spectrum of priorities within the U.S.-Nigeria bilateral relationship across southern Nigeria."
Upon assuming his new position, Swart expressed enthusiasm about serving in Nigeria, stating: "It is an honour to serve in Nigeria. I look forward to exploring the region, connecting with its people, immersing myself in its rich culture, and promoting our shared objectives of building safer, stronger, and more prosperous nations."
He also acknowledged the contributions of his predecessor, saying: "I'm grateful to JoEllen for her exceptional leadership and the vital work she has done to strengthen our partnership with the Nigerian people in this region."
Swart added that he is eager to work alongside Ambassador David Greene and the broader U.S. Embassy team in Abuja to further strengthen the bilateral ties between the United States and Nigeria.
Extensive Diplomatic Experience
The new Consul General brings a wealth of international experience to his role in Lagos. A distinguished diplomat and senior member of the U.S. Foreign Service, Swart has served in various diplomatic assignments across Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.
Prior to his appointment in Lagos, he served as the Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Chad. His diplomatic resume also includes roles as Chargé d'Affaires, a.i., in Chad, Congo, and Burundi, as well as Deputy Consul General in Baghdad and Humanitarian Assistance Officer for Africa at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations in Geneva.
Swart's overseas postings have also included assignments in London, Manila, and Dubai. During his service in Washington, D.C., he focused on critical issues concerning sub-Saharan Africa.
Before embarking on his diplomatic career in 2002, Swart worked on architecture and design projects across Asia and Africa and also served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Mali, further enriching his understanding of the African continent.
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