King Charles Hosts Historic State Visit from Nigeria

Wed Mar 18 2026 20:49:56 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The first Nigerian state visit to the UK in 37 years highlights the strengthening relationship between the two nations with ceremonial grandeur and discussions on economic partnerships.

In a significant diplomatic event, King Charles welcomed Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu at Windsor Castle, marking the first official state visit from Nigeria in 37 years. The visit included a ceremonial procession, a military salute, and an exchange of gifts. As both nations aim to deepen ties through economic partnerships, the event also reflects on the historical and cultural connections shared between Nigeria and the UK.

King Charles is hosting the first Nigerian state visit to the UK for 37 years, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife Oluremi Tinubu receiving a ceremonial welcome at Windsor Castle.

At the start of the two-day visit, the leaders of the African nation with the biggest population—triple that of the UK—were greeted by senior royals including Queen Camilla, and the Prince and Princess of Wales.

The King and President Tinubu will give speeches on Wednesday evening at the state banquet, attended by political leaders and celebrities with links to Nigeria. However, there will be no traditional lunch with the King at Windsor as the president is a Muslim and fasting for Ramadan.

In warm spring sunshine, the president and first lady, wearing traditional robes, were given the ceremonial grandeur of a royal welcome, including a carriage procession and military honors in the castle’s quadrangle.

The visit emphasizes diplomatic relations and aims at strengthening business links, particularly in financial services. The UK’s Business and Trade Department noted the recent opening of a branch of Nigeria's Zenith Bank in Manchester, which aims to create new jobs.

President Tinubu's visit comes amid pressures to enhance security measures back home, as Nigeria grapples with ongoing violence and instability, including a recent terrorist attack in Borno state. Leaders from both nations are looking to transform historic ties into a modern economic partnership.

The royal hosts and the Nigerian delegation also viewed Nigerian artifacts from the Royal Collection and exchanged gifts, which included hand-crafted pottery from the UK and a traditional Yoruba statuette from Nigeria.

The visit also features personal ties, as over 270,000 Nigerian-born individuals reside in the UK, reinforcing the connections between the two nations.

On Thursday, the First Lady will participate in a service at Lambeth Palace and meet Church of England representatives as part of the ongoing diplomatic engagements.