The United Kingdom’s High Commissioner Designate to Nigeria, Pete Vowles, has arrived in Abuja to begin his new assignment as head of the UK diplomatic mission in the country.
Vowles takes over the position from Dr Richard Montgomery CMG, becoming the latest British diplomat to lead the country’s diplomatic representation in Nigeria.
Speaking shortly after his arrival, Vowles said he was pleased to be in Nigeria and looked forward to gaining a deeper understanding of the country, its people and its diverse culture.
He said his immediate priority would be to listen, learn and travel across the country while meeting people and experiencing Nigeria’s unique culture and energy.
Vowles also highlighted the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, noting that the partnership has been strengthened over the years by the strong connections between the people of both countries.
He expressed his readiness to work with partners across Nigeria to further strengthen the relationship between both nations and explore areas where greater cooperation can be achieved.
The new High Commissioner Designate comes into the role with considerable diplomatic and development experience. Before his appointment to Nigeria, he served as His Majesty’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe.
Throughout his diplomatic career, Vowles has held a number of senior positions within the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. He also previously served as Britain’s Ambassador to Myanmar.
His appointment as the next British High Commissioner to the Federal Republic of Nigeria was announced on June 16, 2026.
Vowles has extensive experience working across Africa and Asia, having served in several diplomatic and development roles in countries including Bangladesh, India, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Kenya.
His arrival comes as Nigeria and the UK continue to maintain longstanding ties covering areas such as trade, investment, development, security, education and people to people relations.
