Nigerian Business Woman, Naomi Sigismund Appointed Trade Commissioner in Toronto

To strengthen trade relations and economic growth, the Government of the Republic of Vanuatu has appointed Mrs. Naomi Omolola Sigismund, a Canada based Nigerian business woman, as the Trade Commissioner of Vanuatu to Toronto, Canada.

The development was announced through a formal letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and External Trade, addressed to Mrs. Sigismund, dated May 20, 2024.

The letter, signed by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and External Trade, Hon. Matai Seremaia Nawalu, said the appointment was Pursuant to section 42 of the Foreign Service Act No. 20 of 2013, which granted the authority to make such appointments.

As the newly appointed Trade Commissioner, Mrs. Sigismund will be entrusted with the responsibility of promoting Vanuatu’s trade investment in Toronto. Her duties and responsibilities are outlined in her Terms of Reference, which she is expected to execute diligently.

“To ensure transparency and accountability, Mrs. Sigismund will be required to submit quarterly reports to the Director General, in accordance with section 42 (B) of the Foreign Service Act.

“The appointment as Trade Commissioner of the Republic of Vanuatu to Toronto is for a period of three (3) years, starting from the date of the appointment letter,” the letter read partly.

The role provides Mrs. Sigismund with an opportunity to represent Vanuatu’s interests and foster stronger trade ties with Canada. It is expected that her expertise and dedication will contribute to the growth of Vanuatu’s trade sector and enhance bilateral cooperation.

Hon. Matai Seremaia Nawalu, in his letter, congratulated Mrs. Sigismund on her appointment, recognising her qualifications and suitability for the role, adding that “the Government of Vanuatu expresses confidence in her ability to effectively promote Vanuatu’s trade interests in Toronto and wishes her success in her new position.”

Naomi Olapeju Sigismund is the convener of the annual Glam African Fashion Festival (GAFF) in Nigeria and Canada.

A strong advocate of providing business networking platforms to link Africans and Canada, she is also Founder of Hope For Sure Foundation, a charity as well as the Project Director of The African Canada Investment Expo & Summit, a prestigious business gathering, aimed at bridging the gap between African businesses and Canadian investors.