UK won’t interfere in 2027 elections, has no preferred party – Envoy
UK Assures No Interference in Nigeria’s 2027 Elections
By Favour Ulebor, Abuja
The Deputy British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Gill Lever, stated on Tuesday that the British government will not intervene in the country’s 2027 general elections and has no preferred political party.
Lever made her comments during a courtesy visit to Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, the Governor of Kwara State and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, at the Government House in Ilorin.
On a three-day official visit to Kwara, Lever emphasized the UK’s commitment to supporting elections that are free, peaceful, and credible. “Downing Street has no favorite political party and will not be seen interfering in local political matters,” she said. Lever added that the British government remains neutral and would not dictate how Nigerians should vote.
The envoy described credible elections as not only a democratic objective but also an economic imperative.
Lever commended Abdulrazaq for his administration’s efforts to enhance women’s participation in governance. “Kwara, under your leadership, has been a trailblazer for women’s rights and participation in politics,” she noted. The governor has appointed over 50% of his cabinet to women and endorsed a special seats bill for women, earning him recognition as a ‘HeForShe’ ambassador.
During her visit, Lever highlighted the UK’s support for digital skills development and youth empowerment projects across Nigeria. She mentioned her visit to the Ilorin Innovation Hub to assess progress in enhancing tech skills among youth, which helps innovators connect with global networks. Additionally, she referenced the launch of a community hub in Olayinka, aimed at benefiting over 50,000 individuals in tech skills and digital access.
In response, Governor Abdulrazaq outlined the progress his administration has made since taking office in 2019 across various sectors, including healthcare, education, agriculture, and infrastructure.
“When we came in, the state faced numerous challenges,” he said, referring to issues like unpaid pensions and inadequate educational facilities. Since then, he reported improvements in schooling conditions and timely payment of salaries.
He added, “We have expanded access to education and healthcare and are committed to raising the minimum wage to N100,000 this year.” Abdulrazaq also detailed developments in agricultural support from the federal government, including the establishment of a Shea processing factory in Kaiama.
The governor concluded by stating ongoing efforts to enhance security and protect rural communities within the state.
