The United Kingdom has appointed veteran diplomat Vicky Seymour as its new Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, signalling a renewed push to deepen cooperation between both countries in trade, security, migration and development.
Seymour has officially resumed duties in Abuja, taking over from Gill Lever OBE, whose diplomatic assignment ended in June 2026.
Her appointment comes as Britain and Nigeria continue to strengthen their long-standing partnership, with both countries collaborating on issues ranging from economic growth and investment to regional security, climate action and international development.
In her new role, Seymour would focus on expanding cooperation between the two nations while strengthening ties between their people.
With more than two decades of experience in diplomacy, international development and government service, Seymour brings extensive knowledge of African affairs and global policy issues to the position.
Before arriving in Abuja, 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 previously led the FCDO’s Trade Diplomacy Department and worked as Development Director in Mozambique.
Her career has taken her across several regions, including Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Afghanistan, where she handled key responsibilities involving security, climate policy, governance and economic development.
Before joining the British civil service, Seymour worked in the non-profit sector, with a focus on migration-related issues.
Expressing her excitement about the new assignment, Seymour said:
“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 added that she hoped both nations would continue creating new opportunities for cooperation and stronger connections between their citizens.
The appointment comes at a time when Nigeria and the UK maintain broad cooperation in areas such as defence, trade, education, healthcare, governance reforms, anti-corruption efforts and climate resilience.
Nigeria remains one of Britain’s most important partners in Africa, supported by significant economic ties and a large Nigerian community in the UK that continues to strengthen cultural and social links between both countries.
With her background in African diplomacy and development, Seymour is expected to play a key role in advancing shared priorities between Abuja and London, particularly in promoting economic growth, stability and sustainable development.
