President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with the United Kingdom, with a focus on tackling terrorism and expanding bilateral cooperation. Tinubu disclosed plans to deepen ties during talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday.
Speaking at a state banquet hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle, the Nigerian leader stressed the need for coordinated international efforts to combat terrorism and address instability in West Africa, particularly threats emanating from the Sahel region.
Describing the visit as historic, Tinubu noted that he is the first Nigerian leader to speak at Windsor Castle. He also expressed appreciation to the UK for providing him refuge during the military regime of Sani Abacha, recalling the protection he received while in exile.
Highlighting the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and the UK, Tinubu referenced shared legal and political systems, as well as the contributions of Nigerians in the UK especially in the healthcare sector and their achievements in sports and other fields. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the Commonwealth and expressed optimism about the nation’s future.
The two-day state visit is expected to produce agreements across key areas, including security, trade, investment and cultural cooperation, with discussions also covering a major funding deal to upgrade critical port infrastructure in Lagos.
