President Bola Ahmed Tinubu left Abuja on Tuesday, March 17, for a state visit to the United Kingdom, accepting an invitation from King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
He is travelling with the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, and they will be hosted at Windsor Castle from March 18 to 19.
The visit is historic, as it marks the first time in 37 years that a Nigerian leader has gone on a state visit to the UK. It is also the first occasion a Nigerian president will meet a British monarch at Windsor Castle.
The Presidency said the trip aims to boost ties between Nigeria and the UK, with talks expected to focus on trade, investment, immigration, and cultural exchanges.
During the visit, the president and his wife will view a special Royal Collection exhibition featuring items linked to Nigeria. Tinubu is also scheduled for private discussions with King Charles III and will engage with organisations promoting interfaith dialogue.
A state banquet will be held in honour of the Nigerian delegation.
Tinubu is also set to meet UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street, where both countries are expected to sign deals covering trade, investment, defence, and cultural cooperation.
He is expected to witness the signing of a £746 million financing agreement between UK Export Finance and Nigerian authorities, including the Nigerian Ports Authority, to fund the rehabilitation of Lagos Port Complex in Apapa and Tin Can Island Port Complex.
The president will also attend the Nigerian Modernism exhibition and meet with business leaders and members of the Nigerian community in the UK.
Meanwhile, Windsor authorities have put strict security measures in place ahead of the visit. Thames Valley Police said they are working with local agencies, the Royal Household, and other partners to manage security for the high-profile event.
The police announced airspace restrictions over Windsor Castle on March 18, with road closures and parking limits starting from March 17, which may affect movement in the area.
The security plan includes armed officers, search teams, mounted patrols, and road policing units. Surveillance systems and protective barriers will also be in place to ensure public safety throughout the visit.
The visit comes as Nigeria faces rising violence in some parts of the country.
Hedlyne reported that at least 23 people were killed in multiple explosions in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Monday night.
The Borno State Police Command said in a statement that 108 others were injured in the attacks, which involved suspected suicide bombers.
According to the police, the blasts occurred around 7:24 p.m. at three locations: Monday Market, the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Post Office Flyover.
These attacks are part of ongoing killings, kidnappings, and other crimes in Nigeria during Tinubu’s administration.
