President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s enduring relationship with the United Kingdom, describing both nations as partners bound by history, shared values, and a common vision for the future.
Speaking at a state banquet held in his honour at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, Tinubu expressed gratitude to King Charles III and Queen Camilla for the warm reception extended to him and the Nigerian delegation.
“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,” Tinubu said.
The President noted the historic significance of the occasion, describing his address at Windsor Castle as a landmark moment.
“As the first Nigerian leader to speak here at Windsor Castle… it 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,” he stated.
Tinubu highlighted the deep-rooted ties between Nigeria and the UK, stressing that the relationship goes beyond history to a shared commitment to progress.
“Nigeria and the United Kingdom have shared more than just history; our two nations share a vision of progress and resilience,” he said.
Reflecting on Britain’s influence on global governance, the President referenced the legacy of the Magna Carta and the contributions of renowned thinkers such as Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Edmund Burke.
“The Magna Carta of 1215 laid the early foundations for the rule of law and parliamentary democracy,” Tinubu said, adding that such ideals continue to shape Nigeria’s legal and institutional frameworks.
He also acknowledged the cultural and linguistic influence of British literature, citing figures like William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens.
“Our courts draw upon legal traditions rooted in English common law… our parliamentary institutions reflect constitutional practices that evolved here over centuries,” he added.
The President praised the Nigerian diaspora in the UK for its contributions, particularly in healthcare and sports.
“Within the National Health Service, Nigerian doctors and nurses play an indispensable role,” he said, also referencing athletes such as Maro Itoje, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, and Anthony Joshua as symbols of the strong human connection between both nations.
Tinubu further underscored the importance of the Commonwealth of Nations in strengthening ties among member states.
“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,” he said.
On security, the President noted the challenges facing West Africa, particularly terrorism linked to the Sahel region, and stressed the need for continued collaboration with the UK.
“In confronting these threats, partnership with the United Kingdom remains essential,” he said, expressing anticipation for talks with Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Tinubu also reflected on Nigeria’s democratic journey, expressing gratitude to the UK for its support during periods of military rule.
“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,” he said.
“Like many Nigerians involved in the pro-democracy struggle, I found safety here… that solidarity remains etched in our collective memory.”
He concluded by calling for continued partnership and unity between both nations.
“In the spirit of friendship and our shared destiny… to the special bond between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, and to the bright future that we shall build together,” Tinubu said.
