President Bola Tinubu will today begin a landmark state visit to the United Kingdom, heading a high-profile 17-member delegation that includes First Lady Oluremi Tinubu.
The Nigerian leader and his entourage are guests of King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle.
The visit is historic, marking the first by a Nigerian leader to the UK in 37 years and the first time a Nigerian head of state will be hosted by the British monarch at Windsor Castle. Departing Abuja on Tuesday, the two-day engagement scheduled for March 18 to 19 highlights the enduring historical and diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the UK.
The visit is aimed at strengthening cooperation in key areas such as immigration, trade, investment, and cultural exchange.
While at Windsor Castle, President Tinubu and the First Lady will tour a special exhibition from the Royal Collection showcasing Nigerian-related artefacts. The President is also expected to hold private talks with King Charles III and meet organisations promoting interfaith dialogue.
A major highlight of the visit will be a State Banquet hosted by the Royal Family in honour of the Nigerian delegation. Officials say the visit reflects the deep-rooted relationship between both nations and is designed to further expand bilateral collaboration.
Beyond the royal engagements, President Tinubu will meet with Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street. The talks are expected to culminate in the signing of Memoranda of Understanding covering trade, investment, defence, and cultural cooperation.
A key outcome of the visit will see President Tinubu witness the signing of a £746 million financing agreement involving UK Export Finance, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Finance. The deal will fund the refurbishment of critical infrastructure at the Lagos Port Complex (Apapa Quays) and Tin Can Island Port Complex, providing a significant boost to Nigeria’s maritime sector.
