UK appoints Vicky Seymour as new Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria

The United Kingdom has appointed Vicky Seymour as its new Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Africa’s largest economy.

Seymour has assumed duty in Abuja, succeeding Gill Lever OBE, whose diplomatic posting in Nigeria ended in June 2026.

The appointment was announced on Thursday by the British High Commission in Abuja.

Before taking up her new role, Seymour served as Head of the East Africa Department at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), a position she held from 2023.

She also previously led the FCDO’s Trade Diplomacy Department and served as Development Director in Mozambique.

With more than two decades of experience in diplomacy, international development and public service, Seymour has held senior leadership positions across Africa, including postings in Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique and Afghanistan.

Her experience spans climate, security, trade and economic development, while her earlier career included work in the non-profit sector with a focus on migration.

Speaking on her appointment, Seymour expressed her enthusiasm about deepening the long-standing relationship between the United Kingdom and 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.

“Together, I hope we can continue creating opportunities for greater collaboration and stronger links between our people in the years ahead,” she said.

The British High Commission stated that Seymour will play a key role in advancing the United Kingdom’s engagement with Nigeria in areas including trade, economic growth, security, migration, international cooperation and development, while promoting stronger people-to-people ties between both countries.