By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday reaffirmed the enduring relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, describing it as a bond rooted in shared history, democratic ideals, and mutual aspirations for progress.
Speaking at a State Banquet hosted in his honour at Windsor Castle, the Nigerian leader expressed gratitude to King Charles III and Queen Camilla for the warm reception accorded to him, the First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, and members of the Nigerian delegation.
Describing the moment as historic, Tinubu noted that he was the first Nigerian leader to address a gathering at Windsor Castle, a venue he said symbolises centuries of institutional continuity and governance evolution in Britain.
He traced the roots of modern democratic governance to foundational milestones such as the Magna Carta, noting that its principles of rule of law, accountability, and civic responsibility continue to shape democratic systems globally, including Nigeria’s.
The President also acknowledged the enduring intellectual contributions of renowned British thinkers such as Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Edmund Burke, whose ideas, he said, helped propagate democratic values that remain relevant today.
He further highlighted the global influence of literary figures like William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens in shaping the English language and cultural expression.
Tinubu noted that Nigeria’s legal, parliamentary, and civil service institutions have been significantly influenced by British traditions, particularly the principles of English common law and constitutional governance.
He emphasised that beyond institutional ties, the people-to-people connection remains a vital pillar of the relationship, pointing to the significant contributions of Nigerians in the UK, especially within the healthcare sector through the National Health Service (NHS).
The President also cited the achievements of individuals of Nigerian heritage in sports, including Maro Itoje, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, and Anthony Joshua, as symbols of the strong human link between both nations.
He further highlighted the importance of the Commonwealth of Nations as a platform for continued cooperation among member states, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to playing a constructive role within the global body.
On security, Tinubu acknowledged the complex terrorism challenges facing West Africa, particularly in the Sahel region, stressing the need for sustained collaboration with international partners, including the UK.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, the President expressed optimism about the country’s future, citing the resilience, diversity, and ambition of its people, particularly its youthful population and entrepreneurial spirit.
In a personal reflection, Tinubu recalled his time in exile in the United Kingdom during Nigeria’s military era, expressing gratitude for the refuge and protection he received, including security support from British authorities during threats from agents of the then junta.
He concluded by expressing appreciation to the British monarchy and people for their longstanding friendship with Nigeria and called for a toast to a stronger bilateral relationship.
“To the special bond between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, and to the bright future that we shall build together,” the President said.
Read full text of President Tinubu’s speech below:
SPEECH BY HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR AT THE STATE BANQUET, WINDSOR CASTLE, MARCH 18, 2026
Your Majesty, King Charles III,
Queen Camilla,
Prince William, the Prince of Wales and Duke of Cornwall, and Catherine, the Princess of Wales,
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
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 that have united our two nations for several centuries.
Allow me first to express my sincere appreciation to Your Majesty and to Her Majesty, The Queen for the warmth and generosity extended to me, my wife, Oluremi, and the Nigerian delegation.
As the first Nigerian leader to speak here at Windsor Castle, which has served the British Crown for nearly a millennium, is particularly historic. Windsor has stood as a symbol of continuity, witnessing the steady evolution of institutions that have shaped governance, culture, and public life not only in Britain but far beyond these shores.
Nigeria and the United Kingdom have shared more than just history; our two nations share a vision of progress and resilience. Today, we continue that journey, committed to building a future rooted in partnership, mutual respect, and common values.
Standing here in Windsor Castle, one cannot help but reflect on Britain’s impact on modern democratic governance worldwide.
The Magna Carta of 1215 laid the early foundations for the rule of law and the development of parliamentary democracy, establishing enduring ideals around liberty, accountable government, and civic responsibility.
Great British thinkers and writers such as Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Edmund Burke helped to propagate those democratic ideals. Their influence continues to resonate to this day.
The literary genius of William Shakespeare and other writers such as Charles Dickens, has enriched and shaped the English language, spoken by over 1.5 billion people worldwide.
In Nigeria, elements of these traditions continue to inform the institutional foundations of our own republic. Our courts draw upon legal traditions rooted in English common law. Our parliamentary institutions reflect constitutional practices that evolved here over centuries. Our civil service structures have also drawn upon administrative models developed in Britain and adapted to Nigeria’s own national context.
While institutions matter greatly, our people remain the strongest bridge between our two countries.
The Nigerian community in the United Kingdom has become one of the most dynamic diaspora communities worldwide. Nigerians contribute enormously to the vitality of this nation. Within the National Health Service, Nigerian doctors and nurses play an indispensable role in delivering healthcare. Nigerian-trained doctors are among the largest groups of international medical professionals serving the NHS.
In sport, rugby players such as Maro Itoje, footballers including Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze, and champion boxer Anthony Joshua, illustrate the remarkable human connection that links Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
Our partnership is further strengthened through the Commonwealth of Nations, which connects 56 countries under Your Majesty’s leadership.
As one of the largest nations within the Commonwealth, Nigeria looks forward to contributing constructively to the continued growth and vitality of this global community.
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 and I look forward to my meeting with Prime Minister Kier Starmer tomorrow.
Despite these challenges, Nigeria approaches the future with hope and confidence. We are a nation of diverse and vibrant people, of young people dreaming big, of entrepreneurs with a global outlook, and of a hopeful people determined to realise their full potential.
Your Majesty, I am confident that the friendship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom will continue to grow.
Finally, Your Majesty, I wish to express Nigeria’s deep gratitude to this great nation for the refuge and support it extended during the dark years of military dictatorship. Like many Nigerians involved in the pro-democracy struggle, I found safety here, and I recall that my residence was placed under Metropolitan Police surveillance for protection following threats from agents of the junta. That solidarity remains etched in our collective memory, and it is deeply humbling for me to stand before Your Majesty today as the President of a democratic Nigeria.
On behalf of the Government and people of Nigeria, I thank Your Majesty, Her Majesty The Queen, Prince William and Catherine, the Princess of Wales, other members of the Royal Family, and the people of the United Kingdom for their longstanding friendship.
In the spirit of friendship and our shared destiny, I invite you all to raise a glass with me:
To the special bond between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, and to the bright future that we shall build together.
God bless His Majesty The King. God bless Nigeria. God bless the United Kingdom. Thank you very much.
