UK Appoints Vicky Seymour as New Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria

The United Kingdom has named seasoned diplomat Vicky Seymour as its new Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, signalling a renewed commitment to strengthening diplomatic, economic and security cooperation with Africa’s largest economy.

Seymour has officially assumed office in Abuja, taking over from Gill Lever OBE, whose tenure as Deputy High Commissioner ended in June 2026. The British High Commission announced the appointment on Thursday, describing Seymour as an accomplished diplomat with extensive experience in international development, trade and regional affairs.

Before her posting to Nigeria, Seymour served as Head of the East Africa Department at the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), a role she held from 2023. She also previously led the FCDO’s Trade Diplomacy Department and served as Development Director in Mozambique, where she managed development programmes and strengthened bilateral partnerships.

With more than 20 years of diplomatic and public service experience, Seymour has worked across several African countries, including Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mozambique, as well as Afghanistan. Her expertise spans international development, economic growth, climate policy, migration and security, following an earlier career in the non-profit sector.

Speaking on her appointment, Seymour expressed excitement about beginning her assignment in Nigeria and pledged to deepen the relationship between both 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,” she said.

She added that she hopes to expand cooperation and strengthen ties between the people of both nations.

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

According to the British High Commission, Seymour will play a key role in advancing the UK’s strategic partnership with Nigeria across priority areas, including trade and investment, security, migration, international development, economic growth and people-to-people relations.

Her appointment comes as the United Kingdom continues to deepen collaboration with Nigeria through expanded cooperation in regional security, education, commerce and sustainable development.