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

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

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

Before her appointment, Seymour served as Head of the East Africa Department at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), a position she held since 2023. She previously led the FCDO’s Trade Diplomacy Department and served as Development Director in Mozambique.

With more than 20 years of experience in diplomacy, international development and public service, Seymour has held senior positions across Africa, including postings in Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique and Afghanistan. Her expertise spans climate, security, economic development and migration.

Speaking on her appointment, Seymour expressed optimism about deepening the long-standing relationship between the two countries.

“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 links between our people in the years ahead,” she said.

The British High Commission said Seymour will play a key role in advancing UK-Nigeria cooperation in trade, economic growth, security, migration, development and international collaboration, while promoting stronger people-to-people ties.