UK appoints Richard Montgomery as New High Commissioner for Nigeria

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In a recent development, Dr Richard Montgomery CMG has been appointed as the new British High Commissioner to Nigeria.

Taking over from Ms Catriona Laing CB, who recently concluded her four-year tenure, Dr Montgomery presented his letter of credence to President Muhammadu Buhari at the State House in Abuja on Thursday.

Dr Montgomery, an experienced diplomat who has previously served in Nigeria, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role.

His impressive resume includes serving as the UK Executive Director at the World Bank Group Board in Washington DC, USA from 2018 to 2022.

Prior to his current appointment, he held several senior positions in the Department of International Development (DFID), such as Director for Asia, Caribbean & Overseas Territories Division, Country Director for Pakistan, and Country Director in Nigeria from 2009 to 2013.

Having also served in British High Commissions in Zambia, Bangladesh, and India earlier in his career, Dr Montgomery has extensive international experience.

He is married to Naheed and together they have two children. This will be their second stay in Nigeria, and they are looking forward to further contributing to the country’s progress.

Expressing his enthusiasm for returning to Nigeria, Dr Montgomery stated, “It’s great to be back in Nigeria. I look forward to working with the people of this great country, including those in government, in the private sector, and in civil society, to do all I can to help build a more prosperous Nigeria and strengthen the partnership between our countries.”

With his diverse background and diplomatic expertise, Dr Richard Montgomery CMG is poised to foster stronger ties between the United Kingdom and Nigeria while promoting economic growth and collaboration across various sectors.

The appointment of the new High Commissioner marks a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between the two nations.