Historic Nigerian State Visit Returns to Windsor

For the first time since 1989, a Nigerian leader will travel to the United Kingdom (UK) for a formal state visit.

President Bola Tinubu, joined by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, has accepted an invitation from King Charles III to stay at Windsor Castle from 18 to 19 March.

This milestone highlights the growing soft-power diplomacy between the two nations. Trade between the UK and Nigeria recently topped £8 billion, reinforced by a 2024 investment partnership.

While the King has long-standing ties to the country, including a public fondness for Afrobeats and Pidgin English, this visit marks a significant shift from the private, philanthropic tour undertaken by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in 2024.

The trip will feature traditional royal pageantry, including a state banquet and carriage processions. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, described the upcoming event as a “significant diplomatic milestone,” confirming it is the “first state visit of a Nigerian leader to the UK in 37 years.”

This high-level engagement aims to solidify a strategic partnership that has seen increasing collaboration on trade and youth employment initiatives.

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