President Tinubu, First Lady Welcome by King Charles III at Windsor Castle

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu arrived in the United Kingdom yesterday for a landmark two-day state visit, according to TRUETELLS Nigeria reports. They are guests of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

The presidential aircraft touched down at Stansted Airport at 3:23 p.m. local time, officially kicking off the high-level diplomatic engagements. The arrival was confirmed by the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Mr. Sunday Dare.

TRUETELLS Nigeria reports that the visit will feature a ceremonial reception at Windsor Castle, where President Tinubu and the First Lady will be escorted on a horse-drawn carriage and welcomed by the King and Queen. The program includes a private exhibition from the Royal Collection highlighting items connected to Nigeria, one-on-one discussions with the monarch, and a joint engagement with interfaith organizations.

Other highlights include a formal reception, a 21-gun salute, and a state luncheon at St. George’s Hall. In London, President Tinubu is scheduled to lay a wreath at the Cenotaph in Westminster and hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street, which will include a working lunch. A State Banquet hosted by the Royal Family at Buckingham Palace will conclude the visit.

TRUETELLS Nigeria reports that several agreements and memoranda of understanding are expected to be signed, targeting cooperation in trade and investment, energy transition, solid minerals development, and security collaboration.

Before leaving Nigeria, the President and First Lady were seen off by top officials including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.

TRUETELLS Nigeria reports that Nigerian banks, fintech firms, and creative industry companies are expanding operations in the UK, backed by millions of pounds in new investment. Zenith Bank has opened a branch in Manchester, creating 30 direct jobs, with plans to potentially list on the London Stock Exchange in 2027.

UK officials, including Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle and Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, noted that the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership is already producing results, creating new opportunities for businesses and citizens in both countries.