Canada Based Nigerian Businesswoman, Sigismund Rolls out Plans as Trade Commissioner

Canada-based Nigerian businesswoman, Ms Naomi Omolola Sigismund, has unveiled her array of programmes and activities as she assumes the role of Trade Commissioner for the Republic of Vanuatu in Toronto.

Internationally renowned for her passion for enabling trade and business through networking and bilateral platforms, Ms Sigismund said she seeks to strengthen trade relations and economic growth, and foster mutual prosperity between Vanuatu, Canada, and Africa.

In a statement signed by her Media Consultant, Mr Israel Bolaji, she expressed enthusiasm for enabling trade, business, and bilateral relations, noting that her main goal on her new role remains establishing and sustaining strong bilateral relations between Vanuatu and Canada, with a particular focus on fostering economic growth and mutual prosperity. She also intends to extend these efforts to Africa.

She stated: “During my three year tenure, I will passionately move to establish and sustain strong bilateral relations between Vanuatu and Canada through trade and investment; Generate foreign direct investment (FDI) worth millions of dollars annually, significantly Increase Vanuatu’s Gross National Product (GNP) from $1.19 billion (as of 2022); organise international trade fairs in Port Vila to showcase locally made goods.

“I will Participate in global business round-tables to attract and stimulate trade and investment in Vanuatu; Sign and implement effective trade agreements with Canada amongst others.

“I also plan to promote Vanuatu’s tourism sector through an in-depth evaluation and development of a comprehensive trade policy, as well as organise periodic international trade fairs in collaboration with the Minister of Trade. Exploring international collaborations for trade and investment expansion through Vanuatu’s membership in multilateral institutions is another key objective to achieve.”

Ms Sigismund brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She is the convener of the annual Glam African Fashion Festival (GAFF) in Nigeria and Canada and is also the Founder of Hope For Sure Foundation, a charity organisation.

Additionally, she has served as the Project Director of The African Canada Investment Expo and Summit, a prestigious business gathering aimed at bridging the gap between African businesses and Canadian investors.

Her recent appointment as Trade Commissioner was announced by Vanuatu’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and External Trade, Matai Seremaia Nawalu, in May.