President Tinubu Embarks on Historic State Visit to the United Kingdom
Abuja, Nigeria — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accompanied by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, will depart Abuja on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, for a historic State Visit to the United Kingdom, where they will be hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
The visit, set to take place at Windsor Castle from March 18 to 19, marks the first time in 37 years that a Nigerian leader has undertaken a State Visit to the UK. It is also the first occasion a Nigerian president will be hosted by the British monarch at Windsor Castle.
The purpose of the visit is to strengthen bilateral relations and explore cooperation in trade, investment, cultural exchange, defence, and immigration, reflecting the deep historical ties between the two nations.
During the visit, President Tinubu and the First Lady will be invited to view a special exhibition from the Royal Collection showcasing items related to Nigeria. The King and the President are scheduled for private discussions and engagements with interfaith organisations with global and national reach. A State Banquet will be hosted in their honour by the Royal Family.
President Tinubu will also hold a bilateral meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street, expected to culminate in the signing of Memoranda of Understanding and agreements on trade, investment, defence, and cultural cooperation.
A highlight of the visit will be the signing of a £746 million financing deal between UK Export Finance (UKEF), the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), and the Federal Ministry of Finance, aimed at refurbishing Lagos Port Complex (Apapa Quays) and Tin Can Island Port Complex, two of Nigeria’s major maritime infrastructures.
The President will attend the Nigerian Modernism exhibition, celebrating Nigerian arts and culture, and meet with Nigerian and British business leaders and diaspora members to enhance economic and cultural ties.
Key members of the President’s delegation include: Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Attorney General and Minister of Justice Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN; Minister of Solid Minerals Dele Alake; Minister of Information Idris Mohammed; Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu; Minister of Finance Wale Edun; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; Minister of Culture and Creative Economy Hannatu Musawa; Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Bosun Tijani; Minister of Defence General Christopher Musa (rtd); National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu; and Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed.
President Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria at the conclusion of the State Visit.