Nigeria's Tinubu makes historic UK state visit after 37-year gap
Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu has completed a historic two-day state visit to the UK, the first in 37 years. The visit, hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle, focused on deepening ties between the two nations. Ceremonies included a grand procession, a state banquet, and cultural exchanges.
The visit began with a formal Ceremonial Welcome at Datchet Road, where a Royal Salute marked the occasion. The King and Queen then received President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu at the Royal Dais before a stately carriage procession carried the royal and presidential parties to Windsor Castle.
Earlier, the Prince and Princess of Wales greeted the dignitaries on behalf of the King. Inside the castle, the King held a private audience with President Tinubu, followed by a visit to the Green Drawing Room. There, the royal couple and the Tinubus viewed an exhibition from the Royal Collection, showcasing items linked to Nigeria. The President and First Lady also visited St George's Chapel, where they laid a wreath at the Tomb of Queen Elizabeth II. Later, both the King and President Tinubu delivered speeches at the State Banquet, celebrating the long-standing relationship between the UK and Nigeria. No lunch was held during the visit due to Ramadan. Key objectives included strengthening bilateral relations, highlighting record trade, and reinforcing cultural and economic connections. The UK also aimed to position itself as a global hub for African business.
The state visit concluded with a renewed focus on UK-Nigeria cooperation. Discussions covered trade, investment, and cultural exchanges, with both nations emphasising their shared history. The event marked the first Nigerian state visit to the UK since 1989.
