The United States Mission in Nigeria has announced Rick Swart as its new Consul General in Lagos.

He officially assumed office on July 16, 2025.

As the senior U.S. government representative for the 17 southern states, Swart will lead efforts to strengthen trade and investment, foster people-to-people engagement, and advance key diplomatic priorities in the region.

“I am honored to serve in Nigeria. I am excited about the opportunity to travel across the region, meet the people, experience the culture, while advancing the shared goals of making our two countries safer, stronger, and more prosperous,” Swart said.

Swart succeeds JoEllen Gorg, who served in an acting capacity for the past seven months following the departure of former Consul General Will Stevens, who concluded his tour in November 2024.

During his tenure, Will Stevens played a prominent role in deepening diplomatic ties, particularly through trade engagements and cultural initiatives.

Acknowledging his predecessor, Swart praised JoEllen Gorg for her exceptional leadership, thanking her for advancing the U.S.-Nigeria partnership and strengthening ties with the people of southern Nigeria.

Swart expressed his eagerness to work alongside Ambassador Mills and the U.S. Embassy team in Abuja to further strengthen the shared priorities and cooperation between the United States and Nigeria.