Nigeria’s Tinubu Begins UK Visit, First High-Level Trip in Decades

LONDON, United Kingdom (Topping Africa) — March 18, 2026

Updated: March 18, 2026, 11:12 GMT

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has begun a two-day state visit to the United Kingdom at the invitation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, in the first state visit by a Nigerian leader to Britain in 37 years, according to Nigeria’s presidency and Reuters.

Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu arrived at London Stansted Airport at 3:18 p.m. on March 18 ahead of the formal programme at Windsor Castle, the Nigerian presidency said. Reuters reported that King Charles was due to host the Nigerian president on Wednesday, with Prince William and Princess Kate set to welcome the Nigerian delegation before a formal reception by the king and queen.

Reuters said the visit marks the first state visit by a Nigerian leader to the UK since 1989. The news agency reported that the programme includes full ceremonial honours, a royal salute, a carriage procession, and a state banquet at Windsor Castle. Reuters also reported that no lunch was scheduled because Tinubu is observing Ramadan.

In a statement issued before departure from Abuja, the Nigerian presidency described the trip as a “historic State Visit” and said it would run from March 18 to March 19. The presidency said the visit is intended to deepen bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

Reuters reported that British officials are framing the visit around trade and cultural relations at a time when commercial links between the two countries are at a record high. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy said economic growth sits at the centre of the UK’s relationship with Nigeria, according to Reuters.

Nigeria and the United Kingdom maintain longstanding ties in trade, diplomacy, education,n and diaspora relations. Reuters reported that around 300,000 Nigerians live in the UK, making the Nigerian diaspora one of the most visible African communities in Britain.

The visit carries continental significance because Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country and one of its largest economies. High-level engagements between African leaders and major Western partners are closely watched across the continent for their implications on trade access, investment flows, diplomatic influence, and the positioning of African states in global economic relationships.