The Republic of Vanuatu has named Mrs. Naomi Omolola Sigismund, a Nigerian entrepreneur residing in Canada, as the Trade Commissioner for Vanuatu in Toronto, Canada, to bolster trade connections and drive economic progress.
Mrs. Sigismund is the organizer of the annual Glam African Fashion Festival (GAFF) hosted in both Nigeria and Canada. She is a fervent supporter of creating business networking opportunities between Africa and Canada. She is also the Founder of the Hope For Sure Foundation, a charitable organization, and the Project Director of The African Canada Investment Expo and Summit, a notable business event designed to connect African enterprises with Canadian investors.
The announcement of her appointment was made via an official letter from Vanuatu’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and External Trade, addressed to Mrs. Sigismund on May 20, 2024. The letter, signed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and External Trade, Matai Seremaia Nawalu, stated that the appointment was made under section 42 of the Foreign Service Act No. 20 of 2013, which authorizes such designations.
As the new Trade Commissioner, Mrs. Sigismund will be responsible for advancing Vanuatu’s trade investments in Toronto. Her roles and duties are specified in her Terms of Reference, which she is expected to carry out with diligence.
“To maintain transparency and accountability, Mrs. Sigismund is required to submit quarterly reports to the Director General, following section 42 (B) of the Foreign Service Act. The appointment as Trade Commissioner of the Republic of Vanuatu to Toronto is for a term of three (3) years, starting from the date of the appointment letter,” the letter stated.
This position allows Mrs. Sigismund to represent Vanuatu’s interests and strengthen trade relationships with Canada. It is anticipated that her knowledge and commitment will significantly contribute to the expansion of Vanuatu’s trade sector and improve bilateral cooperation.
In his letter, Matai Seremaia Nawalu congratulated Sigismund on her appointment, acknowledging her qualifications and suitability for the role. He added, “The Government of Vanuatu has confidence in her capability to effectively promote Vanuatu’s trade interests in Toronto and wishes her success in her new role.”