President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to embark on a landmark two-day state visit to the United Kingdom from March 18 to March 19, 2026, following a formal invitation from His Majesty King Charles III. The visit marks a significant moment in Nigeria–United Kingdom relations and underscores renewed diplomatic engagement between both nations at the highest level.
The announcement was made on Sunday through the official X (formerly Twitter) handle of the British royal family, confirming that King Charles III and Queen Camilla will host the Nigerian leader at Windsor Castle. President Tinubu will be accompanied by his wife and First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, during the prestigious visit.
In a statement released by Buckingham Palace, the royal family confirmed the details of the engagement, noting that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has formally accepted the King’s invitation. According to the statement, the state visit will run from Wednesday, March 18, to Thursday, March 19, 2026, with official events and ceremonial activities taking place at Windsor Castle.
Reacting to the development, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the visit as a major diplomatic breakthrough and a proud moment for Nigeria. He emphasized that the visit is historic, as it represents the first state visit by a Nigerian head of state to the United Kingdom in 37 years.
Onanuga noted that the visit reflects the growing importance of Nigeria on the global stage and highlights the mutual desire of both countries to strengthen bilateral ties. He added that discussions during the visit are expected to focus on deepening cooperation in key areas such as trade and investment, security, education, climate action, and cultural exchange.
Diplomatic observers believe the state visit will further consolidate longstanding historical ties between Nigeria and the UK, while opening new avenues for strategic partnership in a rapidly changing global environment. The presence of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, is also expected to spotlight issues related to social development, women’s empowerment, and education.
As preparations continue ahead of the visit, the upcoming engagement at Windsor Castle is widely seen as a symbol of renewed friendship and respect between both nations, and a defining moment in President Tinubu’s international diplomatic efforts.
