President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu arrived in the United Kingdom yesterday for a historic two-day state visit, where they are guests of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
The presidential aircraft touched down at Stansted Airport at 3:23 p.m. local time, marking the start of high-level diplomatic engagements. The arrival was confirmed by the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Mr. Sunday Dare, via his verified X handle.
A ceremonial welcome is set for today at Windsor Castle, where the President and the First Lady will be conveyed on a horse-drawn carriage and officially received by the King and Queen. The program includes a private exhibition of items from the Royal Collection related to Nigeria, one-on-one discussions with the monarch, and a joint engagement with interfaith organizations.
Highlights of the visit include a formal reception, a 21-gun salute, and a state luncheon at St. George’s Hall. In London, President Tinubu will lay a wreath at the Cenotaph in Westminster before holding bilateral talks with Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street, which will include a working lunch. The Royal Family will also host a State Banquet at Buckingham Palace in honor of the Nigerian delegation.
The visit is expected to result in the signing of several agreements and memoranda of understanding between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, focusing on trade and investment, energy transition, solid minerals development, and security collaboration.
Prior to departure from Nigeria, the President and First Lady were seen off by top officials, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
Economic ties are set to deepen as Nigerian banks, fintech firms, and creative industry companies expand operations in the UK, supported by millions of pounds in investment. Zenith Bank, for instance, has opened a new branch in Manchester, projected to create 30 direct jobs, with potential plans to list on the London Stock Exchange in 2027.
UK officials, including Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle and Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, highlighted that the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership is already delivering tangible results, opening new opportunities for businesses and workers in both countries.
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