By Our Reporter
Catherine, Princess of Wales made a notable fashion statement during the state visit of Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to the United Kingdom, wearing an outfit designed by British-Nigerian fashion designer Tolu Coker.
The Prince and Princess of Wales—Prince William and Catherine—played a central role in welcoming President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu. The royal couple received the Nigerian delegation at Windsor’s Fairmont Hotel before escorting them to the official ceremonial welcome hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
The event featured traditional pageantry, including the playing of both national anthems and a carriage procession through Windsor. King Charles III rode alongside President Tinubu in the Australian State Coach, while Queen Camilla accompanied the First Lady in the Scottish State Coach. Prince William and Catherine followed in the Irish State Coach alongside Nigerian officials.
This visit marks the first state visit by a Nigerian president to the UK in 37 years, highlighting a renewed phase in diplomatic relations between both nations. It also comes months after the UK government introduced a new strategic approach to Africa aimed at fostering partnerships based on mutual respect and long-term cooperation.
President Tinubu and his wife arrived in the UK to an official استقبال and are scheduled to participate in several key engagements. These include viewing historic items from the Royal Collection at Windsor Castle, laying a wreath at the tomb of Queen Elizabeth II in St. George’s Chapel, and attending a state banquet at St. George’s Hall.
On the following day, the President is expected to meet with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London, while the First Lady will attend a reception at Lambeth Palace.
Due to ongoing renovations at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle is hosting this year’s state visits. The Tinubu visit is the first of 2026, following similar visits by world leaders hosted at the same venue in 2025.