(DDM) – The Interim National Chairman of the Labour Party, Senator Nenadi Usman, on Tuesday hosted the Deputy British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Gill Lever, at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.
DDM gathered that the meeting was part of an official courtesy visit by the UK envoy to engage with Nigeria’s major political parties on democratic development, governance, and bilateral cooperation.
Senator Usman, a former Minister of Finance and experienced lawmaker, assumed the position of Interim National Chairman following recent leadership changes within the Labour Party.
The party has faced internal disputes and legal battles over its national leadership since the 2023 general elections, during which it emerged as a formidable third force in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Gill Lever’s visit comes at a time when the United Kingdom is deepening its diplomatic outreach to Nigerian political stakeholders, particularly on issues of electoral reforms, youth engagement, and good governance.
The British High Commission in Nigeria has consistently supported democratic institutions and capacity-building programmes aimed at strengthening the country’s electoral processes.
During the closed-door meeting, Senator Usman briefed Lever on the Labour Party’s current priorities, which include fostering internal unity, expanding grassroots mobilization, and advocating for policies that address unemployment, insecurity, and economic hardship.
She emphasized the importance of transparent governance, citizen participation, and constructive opposition politics in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy.
Lever, in her remarks, reaffirmed the UK’s interest in working with all Nigerian political actors to promote democratic stability and mutual prosperity.
She acknowledged the Labour Party’s role in energizing political discourse in the country, particularly among young Nigerians, and noted the importance of inclusive dialogue in addressing national challenges.
The visit also underscored the growing recognition of Nigeria’s opposition parties as critical voices in the nation’s policy debates, beyond election cycles.
Since the 2023 elections, the Labour Party has been vocal on issues such as fuel subsidy removal, minimum wage reforms, and electoral integrity.
Observers say such engagements between foreign missions and political parties help strengthen democratic diplomacy and provide platforms for sharing global best practices.
The UK and Nigeria maintain strong bilateral ties, with cooperation spanning trade, education, security, and development assistance.
This courtesy visit adds to a series of recent diplomatic interactions by the British High Commission with political leaders, civil society, and government agencies across Nigeria.