President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to forging deeper economic and security partnerships with the United Kingdom, describing the relationship as vital for regional stability, trade growth, and mutual prosperity during his historic state visit to the UK.
Speaking at a state banquet hosted in his honour by His Majesty King Charles III at Windsor Castle on Wednesday evening, President Tinubu called on the United Kingdom to maintain and strengthen its support for Nigeria in tackling terrorism and other security threats.
“Our West African region faces complex terrorism challenges with roots in the Sahel. Nigeria carries an enormous responsibility to help safeguard regional stability. In confronting these threats, partnership with the United Kingdom remains essential,” the President declared. He added that bilateral cooperation is pivotal to the security and stability of West Africa and expressed anticipation for deeper collaboration on intelligence sharing, training, and coordinated counter-terrorism efforts.
President Tinubu also highlighted the decades-long historical, cultural, and institutional ties binding the two nations from shared legal traditions rooted in English common law to parliamentary practices and democratic values. He expressed Nigeria’s deep gratitude for the refuge and support Britain provided during the country’s pro-democracy struggles in the 1990s.
The President is scheduled to hold bilateral talks later today with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, where discussions will centre on enhancing security cooperation, expanding economic collaboration, and strengthening trade and investment flows.
These engagements build on record bilateral trade figures now at approximately £8.1 billion and Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which are attracting global investor confidence.
Key areas of focus include infrastructure development, technology transfer, renewable energy, creative industries, agriculture, and education. President Tinubu emphasised Nigeria’s openness to responsible investment and its readiness to deepen partnerships that deliver tangible benefits for citizens of both countries.
“It is a profound honour to stand before you today, representing the people of Nigeria as we reaffirm the enduring bonds of friendship, history, and shared purpose,” the President told the gathering, which included King Charles III, Queen Camilla, and senior members of the British royal family. He invited a toast to the continued partnership for security, prosperity, and mutual understanding.
The state visit the first by a Nigerian Head of State to the UK in nearly four decades underscores Nigeria’s strategic role in the Commonwealth and its determination to reset and elevate bilateral relations for the benefit of both nations.