President Bola Tinubu has accepted an invitation from King Charles III to make a state visit to the United Kingdom from 18 to 19 March 2026. This historic visit marks the first state visit by a Nigerian leader to the UK in 37 years, with the last visit in 1989 by former military president Ibrahim Babangida.
During the visit, King Charles III and Queen Camilla will host President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu at Windsor Castle. The visit aims to strengthen the enduring partnership between Nigeria and the UK, with trade between the two countries exceeding £8 billion in the year to October.
This state visit is significant as it highlights the growing importance of Nigeria to British foreign policy and reflects broader efforts to position the UK as a long-term partner in Africa’s economic transformation. King Charles III has longstanding personal ties with Nigeria, having visited the country four times as Prince of Wales and expressing admiration for Nigerian culture, including Pidgin English and Afrobeats music.
Key Highlights of the State Visit:
- Strengthening Diplomatic Ties: The visit aims to further strengthen the partnership between Nigeria and the UK.
- Economic Cooperation: Trade between the two countries has exceeded £8 billion, making Nigeria one of the UK’s most significant partners in Africa.
- Cultural Exchange: King Charles III has expressed admiration for Nigerian culture, including Pidgin English and Afrobeats music.
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