Bilateral trade relations between Nigeria and Mexico have gained new momentum with the historic appointment of leading Nigerian businessman and infrastructure developer, ‘Biodun Otunola, as the first Honorary Consul of Mexico in Lagos, marking a major diplomatic milestone for Nigeria’s commercial capital.

The inauguration ceremony, held on Monday, brought together members of the diplomatic corps, senior government officials, and leaders from the business community. Among the dignitaries were His Excellency Ambassador Alfredo Miranda, Ambassador of Mexico to Nigeria, and the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin.

The event underscored Lagos’ growing role as a strategic gateway for international trade, investment, and partnerships across West Africa.

Ambassador Miranda highlighted the significance of the appointment, noting that the new consulate would strengthen bilateral engagement and foster economic, cultural, and institutional collaboration.

“I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to Mr. Biodun Otunola on his appointment as Honorary Consul of Mexico in Lagos. His professional experience, leadership, and understanding of the local environment will undoubtedly advance Mexico-Nigeria relations, building new bridges of cooperation between our peoples,” Ambassador Miranda said.

At the inauguration, Honorary Consul Biodun Otunola expressed his gratitude and outlined his vision for the consulate.

“I am deeply honoured by the confidence that Mexico has placed in me. Mexico is a $1.8 trillion economy, ranking among the top 12 in the world, offering significant opportunities across sectors such as power, tourism, and manufacturing. Lagos is open for business, and through stronger collaboration, we aim to stimulate investment, create jobs, and contribute meaningfully to economic growth,” Otunola said.

Representing the governor, Barrister Salu-Hundeyin delivered a goodwill message from Lagos State, emphasizing the city’s dynamic economic, social, and cultural importance.

“Today marks an important milestone in the growing relationship between Mexico and Nigeria, particularly Lagos State. The inauguration will serve as a bridge, strengthening diplomacy, expanding economic opportunities, and deepening friendship between our two nations,” the governor’s message read.

Biodun Otunola is the founding Managing Director of Planet Projects Limited (PPL), a leading engineering and transport firm. A civil engineering graduate from Obafemi Awolowo University with a Master’s from Chalmers University of Technology, he has led landmark infrastructure projects, including the Oshodi Transport Interchange, the largest bus terminal in Africa.

Otunola is also a Policy Affiliate at the University of Oxford’s International Growth Centre and has completed advanced management programs at Wharton Business School. Under his leadership, PPL was recognized by the UITP as the best company for Integrated Mobility in Africa.

The inauguration of the Honorary Consulate of Mexico in Lagos signals a new chapter in Nigeria-Mexico relations.

With Lagos positioned as one of Africa’s foremost economic hubs, the consulate is expected to become a strategic platform for advancing trade, investment, cultural exchange, and institutional collaboration, opening the way for mutually beneficial partnerships between both nations.