The United Kingdom has appointed seasoned diplomat Vicky Seymour as its new Deputy High Commissioner in Abuja, reinforcing diplomatic ties with Nigeria as both countries seek to deepen cooperation in trade, security, migration and economic development.
Seymour officially assumed office, succeeding Gill Lever OBE, whose tenure ended in June 2026.
Her appointment comes as the UK and Nigeria continue to strengthen their long-standing strategic partnership, with collaboration spanning regional security, investment, climate action, governance, education and international development.
In her new role, Seymour will support efforts to advance bilateral cooperation in economic growth, security, migration, development, international relations and people-to-people exchanges.
Bringing more than two decades of experience in diplomacy, international development and public service, Seymour previously served as Head of the East Africa Department at the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), a position she held since 2023.
She also headed the FCDO’s Trade Diplomacy Department and served as Development Director in Mozambique, where she supervised development programmes and strengthened bilateral relations. Her diplomatic career includes senior postings in Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Afghanistan, with expertise covering climate policy, security and economic development.
Before joining the UK civil service, Seymour worked in the non-profit sector, focusing on migration issues.
Speaking on her appointment, Seymour said she was excited to begin her new assignment in Nigeria.
“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.
She expressed optimism that both nations would continue to expand cooperation and strengthen people-to-people relations in the years ahead.
The UK said the appointment underscores its commitment to deepening relations with Nigeria, one of its key partners in Africa. Both countries maintain extensive cooperation in defence and security, trade and investment, healthcare, education, governance reforms, anti-corruption initiatives and climate resilience.
With her extensive experience in African diplomacy and development, Seymour is expected to play a key role in advancing the shared priorities of London and Abuja, aimed at promoting prosperity, stability and sustainable development.
