Bola Ahmed Tinubu was formally received with full military honours by King Charles III on Wednesday at Windsor Castle as the Nigerian president began his state visit to the United Kingdom.
The president and Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, were welcomed with a ceremonial 42-gun salute fired by the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery during the official reception.
Earlier in the day, the Nigerian leader and his wife were received by the Prince and Princess of Wales — Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales — before travelling to Windsor Castle for the formal welcome ceremony.
At the castle, President Tinubu and King Charles inspected a guard of honour mounted by the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards.
Gifts Exchange and Royal Collection Exhibition
During the visit, both leaders exchanged gifts and viewed a special exhibition of items connected to Nigeria from the Royal Collection.
The programme also includes a state banquet where President Tinubu and King Charles are expected to deliver speeches before invited dignitaries and guests.
The Nigerian president and the First Lady are also scheduled to lay a wreath at the tomb of the late Queen Elizabeth II inside St George’s Chapel.
Meetings and Diaspora Engagement
As part of the visit, the Nigerian delegation will meet organisations involved in interfaith dialogue and engage members of the Nigerian diaspora in the UK.
On Thursday, President Tinubu is expected to hold talks with the British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, as discussions focus on strengthening trade, security, and governance cooperation between both nations.
Meanwhile, the First Lady will also take part in religious engagements, including preaching at a service at Lambeth Palace and meeting representatives of the Church of England.
Nigeria and the United Kingdom continue to maintain strong diplomatic ties, reinforced by a strategic partnership agreement signed in 2024 aimed at expanding cooperation in areas such as economic development, migration, and security.
