This afternoon, I was accompanied by Chief Ambassador Uzo Owunne, CEO of INGO and Convener of the African Pavilion UK, on a courtesy visit to the Deputy High Commissioner of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in London, His Excellency Ambassador Mohammed Maidugu, at the Nigeria High Commission in London.
The visit provided an opportunity for constructive engagement and discussions on matters relating to the Nigerian community, diplomatic relations, and collaborative initiatives that continue to promote Nigeria’s image and interests within the United Kingdom and the wider international community.
During the meeting, we had the honour of formally presenting the 2025 London Political Summit and Awards Recognition Award to the Deputy High Commissioner on behalf of the Nigeria High Commission. The award, originally conferred during the 2025 Summit, was presented in recognition of the remarkable contributions of the High Commission and the Ambassador’s diplomatic engagement, leadership, and commitment towards strengthening Nigeria’s relationship with the diplomatic and diaspora communities in London.
The London Political Summit and Awards acknowledged the positive role played by the Mission in fostering constructive dialogue, supporting Nigerians in the diaspora, and promoting diplomatic cooperation and national development initiatives. The recognition also reflects appreciation for the Mission’s continued openness to engagement with stakeholders, institutions, and community organisations working towards the advancement of Nigeria’s interests abroad.
In his acceptance remarks, Ambassador Mohammed Maidugu expressed profound appreciation to the London Political Summit and Awards for the recognition and formal presentation of the award to both the Nigeria High Commission and himself. He stated that, on behalf of the Mission and members of staff, he remained deeply grateful and honoured by the recognition, describing it as an encouragement to continue strengthening the Mission’s engagement with Nigerians in the diaspora, the diplomatic community, and development-oriented organisations in the United Kingdom.
The Deputy High Commissioner further reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria High Commission to supporting initiatives that promote Nigeria’s image, foster unity among Nigerians abroad, and encourage partnerships that contribute positively to national growth and international cooperation.
Deputy High Commissioner,
We also had the distinguished opportunity to briefly meet with the newly appointed High Commissioner of Nigeria to the Court of St. James’s, London, His Excellency Ambassador Aminu Dalhatu, who was on his way to attend the King’s Annual Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. During the brief interaction, I had the honour of presenting the official London Political Summit and Awards Welcome Letter and Certificate of Appreciation to His Excellency, warmly welcoming him to the United Kingdom and acknowledging his appointment as Nigeria’s High Commissioner.
The engagement further reflected the commitment of the London Political Summit and Awards to strengthening relationships with diplomatic institutions and fostering constructive partnerships with Nigerian representatives abroad in the promotion of national interest, diplomacy, and diaspora engagement.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration between diplomatic institutions, diaspora organisations, and policy advocacy platforms in advancing national development, cultural diplomacy, economic cooperation, and international partnerships.
Chief Ambassador Uzo Owunne commended the leadership of the Nigeria High Commission for its ongoing support and engagement with Nigerian-focused initiatives in the United Kingdom, while reiterating the importance of unity, strategic partnerships, and diaspora participation in nation-building.
In conclusion, the visit reaffirmed the shared commitment of all parties towards promoting Nigeria’s global image, strengthening bilateral and community relations, and encouraging meaningful collaborations that will continue to benefit Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.
