Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The United Kingdom Government has appointed Ms Vicky Seymour as the new Deputy High Commissioner in Abuja, succeeding Mrs Gill Lever OBE, who completed her posting in June 2026. The appointment was announced in a statement on Thursday, August 6, 2026, confirming that Seymour has assumed her duties in Nigeria's capital and will play a key role in strengthening the long-standing partnership between the UK and Nigeria across several critical areas, including economic growth, security, migration, development, international cooperation, and people-to-people relations.
According to the statement, Seymour brings more than 20 years of experience in diplomacy, international development, and government service. Before her appointment, she served as Head of the East Africa Department at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), a position she held from 2023. She had also previously led the FCDO's Trade Diplomacy Department and served as Development Director in Mozambique. Her diplomatic career includes senior leadership roles in several African countries, including Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as in Afghanistan. She has also held positions focused on climate issues, security, and economic development. Prior to joining the UK civil service, Seymour worked in the not-for-profit sector, where she focused on migration-related issues.
Reacting to her appointment, Seymour expressed enthusiasm about her new role. "I am delighted to be taking up the role of Deputy High Commissioner in Abuja. I look forward to getting to know this extraordinary country, meeting people from across Nigeria's diverse communities, and building on the strong partnership that already exists between our two countries," she said. "Together, I hope we can continue creating opportunities for greater collaboration and links between our people in the years ahead."
Seymour's appointment comes at a time when the UK and Nigeria continue to deepen their bilateral relations across multiple fronts, including trade, security cooperation, and development assistance. The UK remains one of Nigeria's key development partners, with significant investments in education, healthcare, and economic reform programmes. Her extensive experience in East Africa, trade diplomacy, and development work is expected to bring fresh perspectives to the UK mission in Abuja as both countries navigate a rapidly changing global landscape.
The appointment also underscores the UK's commitment to maintaining a strong diplomatic presence in Nigeria, Africa's largest economy and one of its most important strategic partners. As Deputy High Commissioner, Seymour will work closely with the British High Commissioner to advance UK interests in Nigeria and support the growing number of British businesses and citizens in the country. She takes over from Gill Lever, who completed her tour of duty in June after several years of service in Nigeria.
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