The United Kingdom has said it is closely monitoring Nigeria’s democratic process and is keenly interested in the country’s next general elections scheduled for 2027.
British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, stated this on Thursday during a courtesy visit to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, in Abuja.
Montgomery said the UK would continue to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty but noted that developments in the country are important to Britain because of its economic, financial, and security interests.
He disclosed that the UK would send observer delegations to the upcoming off-cycle governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States.
“We will send delegations to observe the elections because these will be the final off-season governorship elections before the general elections next year. We want to see peaceful, credible and successful elections,” he said.
The envoy stressed the significance of Nigeria to the UK, describing it as Africa’s largest country and a key partner.
“We will always approach Nigeria with respect. Nigeria is by far the largest country in Africa and what happens here matters greatly. We have significant economic, financial and security investments in Nigeria, and therefore Nigeria’s stability and democratic success are important to us,” Montgomery added.
He also reaffirmed Britain’s support for Nigeria’s democratic institutions and expressed confidence in the country’s electoral future.
“We are investing in Nigeria’s democracy because we believe in its future. We wish Nigeria well as events unfold towards the next general election,” he said.
Speaking earlier, APC National Chairman Yilwatda assured the British envoy that the ruling party would encourage issue-based campaigns in the forthcoming off-cycle elections.
According to him, APC candidates would avoid inflammatory rhetoric capable of creating political tension, while the party remains committed to peaceful and responsible political engagement.
