President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that the historic relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom will continue to deepen, as he addressed a distinguished audience at a state banquet held in his honour at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
While speaking before King Charles III, Queen Camilla, members of the Royal Family, and global dignitaries, President Tinubu described the moment as both historic and deeply symbolic.
“It is a profound honour to stand before you… as we reaffirm the enduring bonds of friendship, history, and shared purpose that have united our two nations,” the President said.
He expressed heartfelt gratitude for the warm reception extended to him, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, and the Nigerian delegation, adding that his address marked a significant milestone as the first Nigerian leader to speak at Windsor Castle, an enduring symbol of British heritage spanning nearly a millennium.
President Tinubu highlighted the deep-rooted historical and institutional ties between both countries, referencing foundational principles such as the Magna Carta, which he said helped shape democratic governance globally.
He also paid tribute to influential British thinkers like Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Edmund Burke, as well as literary icons such as William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens, whose works have shaped global culture and the English language.
According to him, Nigeria’s legal system, parliamentary structures, and civil service continue to reflect elements of British institutional heritage, adapted to suit the country’s unique context.
Emphasizing human connections as the strongest bridge between both countries, Tinubu praised the Nigerian diaspora in the UK for its remarkable contributions, particularly within the National Health Service, where Nigerian professionals play a critical role.
He also spotlighted notable athletes of Nigerian descent making waves in the UK, including Maro Itoje, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, and Anthony Joshua, describing them as symbols of shared heritage and excellence.
President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to global cooperation through the Commonwealth of Nations, saying its importance in fostering unity amongst 56 member countries under the British monarch.
He acknowledged ongoing security challenges in West Africa, particularly terrorism linked to the Sahel region, and stressed the importance of continued collaboration with the UK. He also revealed plans to meet with Keir Starmer to strengthen bilateral cooperation.
Despite these challenges, the President struck an optimistic tone, describing Nigeria as a nation of energetic youth, innovative entrepreneurs, and resilient citizens determined to achieve their full potential.
In a deeply personal moment, President Tinubu recalled his time in exile during Nigeria’s military era, expressing gratitude to the UK for offering refuge and protection during the pro-democracy struggle.
“That solidarity remains etched in our collective memory,” he said, reflecting on the journey from exile to the presidency of a democratic Nigeria.
In concluding his speech, Prtnership between both nations. “To the special bond between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, and to the bright future that we shall build together.” he toasted
He ended with a message of goodwill: “God bless His Majesty The King. God bless Nigeria. God bless the United Kingdom.”
