The United Kingdom has appointed senior diplomat Vicky Seymour as its new Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening diplomatic, economic, security ties with Africa's largest economy.

Seymour, a seasoned diplomat with the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), succeeds Gill Atkinson in the role. She is expected to support efforts to deepen cooperation between both countries in areas including trade, investment, education, climate action, regional security.

Speaking on her appointment, Seymour expressed delight at taking up the new role, stating that she looks forward to working closely with the Nigerian Government, businesses, civil society to advance shared priorities and strengthen the longstanding partnership between the two nations.

The British High Commission said Seymour brings extensive experience in diplomacy, international development, strategic policy, noting that her appointment reflects the UK's continued focus on expanding engagement with Nigeria across key sectors that promote mutual prosperity and sustainable development.

The appointment comes as the UK seeks to reinforce its relationship with Nigeria through increased collaboration on economic growth, governance, security, innovation, people-to-people exchanges, with both countries maintaining longstanding diplomatic and commercial ties.