By Our Reporter
Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Wednesday received a grand ceremonial welcome at Windsor Castle as he commenced his state visit to the United Kingdom. The visit began with full military honours hosted by King Charles III.
The President and the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, were honoured with a 42-gun salute by the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery. They also inspected a Guard of Honour mounted by the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards.
Ahead of the ceremony, Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales received the Nigerian leader and his wife at the Fairmont Hotel before accompanying them to Windsor Castle.
During the visit, both leaders toured an exhibition of items linked to Nigeria from the Royal Collection and exchanged gifts, reflecting the longstanding ties between the two nations. A state banquet is also scheduled, where President Tinubu and King Charles III are expected to deliver speeches before an audience of dignitaries, political leaders, and notable figures.
As part of the itinerary, the President and First Lady will lay a wreath at the tomb of the late Queen Elizabeth II at St George’s Chapel. They are also set to engage with organisations promoting interfaith dialogue.
On Thursday, President Tinubu is expected to hold talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and meet members of the Nigerian diaspora in the UK.
The visit is seen as an opportunity to strengthen diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, with discussions expected to focus on trade, security, and governance. Both countries have continued to deepen cooperation following recent agreements aimed at boosting economic and strategic partnerships.
Meanwhile, the First Lady is scheduled to participate in religious engagements, including ministering at Lambeth Palace and meeting representatives of the Church of England.