UK names Peter Vowles new British high commissioner to Nigeria

The United Kingdom has announced the appointment of Peter Vowles as its new British High Commissioner to Nigeria. Vowles, a seasoned diplomat with extensive experience in Africa and Asia, is set to assume his new responsibilities in September 2026, succeeding Dr. Richard Montgomery.

Vowles brings a wealth of experience spanning over two decades in diplomatic and development roles. His career includes significant positions within the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and its predecessor, the Department for International Development (DFID). Prior to this appointment, he served as the British High Commissioner to Zimbabwe since 2023.

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Mr Peter Vowles has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in succession to Dr Richard Montgomery CMG.

His diplomatic journey includes serving as FCDO Transformation Director from 2022 to 2023 and as HM Ambassador to Myanmar between 2021 and 2022. He also held the role of Director for Asia, Caribbean and Overseas Territories at DFID from 2018 to 2021. Earlier in his career, Vowles served as Country Director for DFID in Kenya (2016–2018) and held various positions in the Democratic Republic of Congo, India, and Afghanistan.

Vowles joined DFID in 2006 after working as a Health and Development Consultant. His early career also involved roles in Bangladesh and participation in the National Health Service Management Training Scheme in the UK. This extensive background underscores the UK's continued diplomatic engagement with Nigeria.

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Mr Vowles will take up his appointment during September 2026