Thames Valley Police have unveiled extensive security operations, including temporary road closures and a significant expansion of airspace restrictions, in preparation for the state visit of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The President and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu are scheduled to meet King Charles III at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, March 18, for a two-day diplomatic engagement.
The visit, which runs from March 18 to 19, represents the highest level of diplomatic hospitality extended by the British monarchy and marks the first formal state visit by a Nigerian president to the UK in nearly four decades.
While a permanent airspace restriction is already in place around Windsor Castle year-round, authorities confirmed that the no-fly zone will be temporarily extended on March 18. The enhanced restriction will be active from 7:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. GMT.
Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of Thames Valley Police’s Joint Operations Unit emphasized the seriousness of the measure, stating that the restrictions are a critical part of a "robust security operation" coordinated with the Civil Aviation Authority and National Air Traffic Services.
"We will be taking a strong stance in enforcing the restrictions; anyone who breaches them will be committing a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order and could be arrested," Ch Supt Hall warned.
Motorists and pedestrians in Windsor should prepare for significant travel disruption. Road closures and parking restrictions will begin on Tuesday, March 17, with temporary disruptions likely on roads in and around the town during the visit.
Specifically, several footways and pedestrian crossings in the town centre will close periodically between 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. on both March 17 and 18 to accommodate a ceremonial procession.
Despite the stringent security measures, officials have confirmed that local businesses, shops, cafés, and restaurants in Windsor and nearby Eton will remain open throughout the visit.
Beyond the air and road restrictions, Thames Valley Police will deploy a substantial number of officers with specialist capabilities across Windsor. This includes search teams, the Mounted Section, Roads Policing units, and armed officers.
Neighbourhood policing teams and Project Servator resources designed to deter and detect criminal activity through unpredictable patrols will also be visibly present to engage with the public.
The operation will be supported by the extensive CCTV network in Windsor and the use of hostile vehicle mitigation barriers
Ch Supt Hall assured the public of the force's capability, citing their extensive experience in policing royal events. "We will ensure everyone attending the state visit, including dignitaries and spectators, as well as the public, are kept safe to enjoy the historic occasion," he said.
Authorities are urging residents and visitors to support the security operation by remaining vigilant. Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious activity by calling 101 or speaking directly to officers on the ground. In case of an immediate threat or emergency, the public should call 999.