Dr Richard Montgomery appointed as new British High Commissioner to Nigeria
The UK government has appointed Dr Richard Montgomery as the new High Commissioner to Nigeria, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Montgomery replaces Ms Catriona Laing, who recently concluded her four-year tenure as High Commissioner to Nigeria.
The UK High Commission, in a statement issued in Abuja, announced that Montgomery presented his letter of credence to President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday.
The statement emphasized Montgomery’s commitment to strengthening the ties between the UK and Nigeria.
“I look forward to working with the people of this great country, including those in government, the private sector, and civil society. I will do everything in my power to contribute to a more prosperous Nigeria and enhance the partnership between our countries,” Montgomery stated.
Richard Montgomery is an experienced diplomat who has served in various parts of the world, including Nigeria in the past.
Before assuming the role of British High Commissioner to Nigeria, he held the position of UK Executive Director at the World Bank Group Board from 2018 to 2022 in Washington, DC, USA.
He has held several senior positions in the Department of International Development (DFID), including Director for Asia, Caribbean & Overseas Territories Division, and Country Director for Pakistan.
From 2009 to 2013, Montgomery also served as the DFID Country Director in Nigeria. In addition, he has previously worked at the British High Commissions in Zambia, Bangladesh, and India.