The 2027 presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, on Thursday held talks with the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, on Nigeria’s democratic governance, economic situation, institutional strengthening and the need to safeguard the credibility of future elections as the envoy prepares to conclude his diplomatic assignment in the country.

The meeting comes amid growing national conversations on electoral reforms, economic challenges and efforts by political stakeholders to strengthen democratic institutions ahead of future elections.

It also coincides with the conclusion of Montgomery’s diplomatic assignment in Nigeria next month after years of representing the United Kingdom in the country.

In a statement issued on his verified X account on Thursday, Obi said the meeting focused on key national issues affecting governance and democratic development.

His statement partly read, “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 also appreciated the British envoy for his contributions to Nigeria-United Kingdom relations during his tenure.

“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 said.

The former Anambra State governor wished the envoy success in his future assignment and expressed optimism that bilateral relations between both countries would continue to grow.

“I wished him well as he prepares for his next assignment and thanked him for the friendship and cooperation he has extended to Nigeria throughout his tenure. I look forward to seeing the strong relationship between our two countries continue to grow,” Obi stated.

Nigeria and the United Kingdom have maintained longstanding diplomatic, economic and security ties, with both countries collaborating on issues including trade, governance, education and democratic development.

The British High Commission has also continued to support initiatives aimed at strengthening electoral processes, public institutions and economic reforms in Nigeria.