UK Has No Preferred Candidate in Nigeria’s 2027 Elections – British Deputy High Commissioner

The British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Gill Lever, has clarified that the United Kingdom has no preferred candidate or political party ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, stressing that its focus is strictly on credible and peaceful polls.

Lever made the remarks during a visit to Ilorin, Kwara State, where she held discussions with AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and other government officials as part of a three-day engagement in the state.

According to her, the UK government, based in Downing Street, will not interfere in Nigeria’s electoral process but will continue to support democratic practices that guarantee free, fair, and inclusive elections.

“The British Government would support a free, peaceful, and credible election in Nigeria next year. Downing Street has no favourite political party and will not be seen interfering in local political matters,” she said.

Lever emphasized that the UK’s priority is to ensure elections that allow broad participation while respecting democratic institutions and the rule of law.

“We all want to see elections that are peaceful, inclusive, and credible, with space for participation and respect for institutions,” she added.

She further noted that credible elections are not only a democratic necessity but also an economic imperative, as political stability directly influences investor confidence and development outcomes.

Her comments come amid heightened political activities across Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections, with various stakeholders already positioning for key offices.

Governor AbdulRazaq, in his response, highlighted ongoing reforms in Kwara State across education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure, saying his administration has made significant progress since assuming office in 2019.

The UK envoy’s visit to Kwara also included engagements on economic cooperation, women’s empowerment, innovation, and security collaboration between both countries.