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 following the departure of former Consul General Will Stevens in November 2024.

In a statement issued by the Mission, Swart was described as the most senior U.S. Government representative serving the southern region of Nigeria, covering 17 states.

According to the statement, “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.”

Expressing his delight at the new role, Swart stated, “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 commended his predecessor, JoEllen Gorg, for her dedication during the transition period. “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,” he said.

Swart added that he is eager to collaborate with Ambassador David Greene and the wider U.S. Embassy team in Abuja to reinforce the strong ties between both nations.

A distinguished diplomat and senior member of the U.S. Foreign Service, Swart brings extensive international experience to his new role, having served in various assignments across Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.

Prior to his current posting, he was the Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Chad and previously served as Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., in Chad, Congo, and Burundi. His diplomatic resume also includes roles 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 further include assignments in London, Manila, and Dubai, while his service in Washington, D.C. 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.