The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress for the 2027 election, Peter Obi, on Thursday met with the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery, to discuss Nigeria’s democratic development, economic challenges, institutional reforms and the need to ensure credible future elections.
The meeting, held ahead of the conclusion of Montgomery’s diplomatic assignment in Nigeria next month, comes amid increasing national conversations on electoral reforms, governance and efforts to strengthen democratic institutions before the 2027 general elections.
Obi disclosed details of the engagement in a post on his verified X handle, describing the discussion as productive and centred on issues critical to Nigeria’s progress.
According to him, the talks focused on the country’s democracy, economic outlook, institutional strengthening and the importance of conducting elections that truly reflect the will of the people.
“Earlier today, I met with the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, His Excellency Dr Richard Montgomery. We had a thoughtful discussion on the state of our democracy, the economy, the importance of strengthening our institutions, and the need to ensure that our elections remain free, fair, credible and truly reflective of the will of the Nigerian people,” Obi wrote.
The former Anambra State governor also commended the British envoy for his contributions to Nigeria-United Kingdom relations during his tenure, noting that Montgomery had consistently supported initiatives aimed at deepening democratic governance and economic cooperation.
Obi expressed appreciation for the envoy’s service, describing his engagement with Nigeria as constructive and beneficial to bilateral relations.
“As Dr Montgomery prepares to conclude his diplomatic assignment in Nigeria next month, I thanked him for his service and for the role he has played in strengthening the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. His time in Nigeria has been marked by constructive engagement and support for our democratic and economic development,” he stated.
He wished the diplomat success in his future assignment and expressed confidence that the longstanding partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom would continue to flourish.
Nigeria and the United Kingdom maintain longstanding diplomatic, economic and security ties, with both countries collaborating in areas including trade, governance, education and democratic development. The British High Commission has also supported programmes aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s electoral process, public institutions and economic reforms.
