Tinubu signaled stronger Nigeria-UK security partnership during historic state visit

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening security cooperation with the UK, revealing plans to prioritize counter-terrorism and regional stability in talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

The President made this known on Wednesday evening during a state banquet hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle, marking a historic moment as the first Nigerian leader to address an audience at a royal residence.

The dinner, which kicked off at 9pm local time, is part of Tinubu’s ongoing state visit activities, where security collaboration between the two countries is expected to be highlighted.

Speaking on regional security issues, Tinubu said Nigeria will continue to rely on strategic partnerships to tackle terrorism, especially threats emanating from the Sahel.

“Our West African region faces a complex terrorism challenge rooted in the Sahel. Nigeria bears an enormous responsibility to help maintain regional stability.

“In the face of this threat, partnership with the UK remains essential and I look forward to my meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer tomorrow (today),” Tinubu said.

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Reflecting on his personal history, the President also expressed appreciation for Britain’s role during the years Nigeria was under military rule, recalling how he found protection there during the regime of former Head of State, Sani Abacha.

He recounted how British authorities ensured his safety at the time, and noted that the Metropolitan Police provided protection following threats from the military government.

He said, “Your Excellency, I wish to express Nigeria’s deepest gratitude to this great country for the protection and support it provided during the dark years of military dictatorship.

“Like many Nigerians involved in the pro-democracy struggle, I feel safe here, and I remember that my residence was placed under Metropolitan Police surveillance for protection following threats from junta agents.

“That solidarity remains etched in our collective memory, and it is truly an honor for me to stand before His Excellency today as President of a democratic Nigeria.”

The statement refers to Tinubu’s years in exile in the 1990s when he was active in the pro-democracy movement opposing military rule.

In his address to the gathering—which was attended by Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Catherine, Princess of Wales—the President highlighted the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, and described his presence at Windsor Castle as a historic milestone.

“To be the first Nigerian leader to speak here at Windsor Castle, which has served the British Empire for almost a millennium, is truly historic,” he said.

Tinubu also pointed to the deep institutional ties between the two countries, and noted the influence of British legal and parliamentary traditions on Nigeria’s system of government.

“In Nigeria, elements of this tradition continue to influence the institutional foundations of our own republic.

“Our courts draw on legal traditions rooted in English common law.

“Our parliamentary institutions reflect the constitutional practices that have developed here over the centuries,” he said.

He further acknowledged the contribution of Nigerians in the UK, particularly in the health sector.

“In the National Health Service, Nigerian doctors and nurses play an indispensable role in delivering health services.

“Nigerian-trained doctors are one of the largest groups of international medical professionals serving the NHS,” he said.

The President also cited prominent athletes of Nigerian descent—such as Maro Itoje, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, and Anthony Joshua—as examples of the strong cultural and humanitarian ties that connect the two countries.

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s role in the Commonwealth of Nations, and described the country as a key contributor to the global body.

“As one of the largest countries in the Commonwealth, Nigeria hopes to make a constructive contribution to the continued growth and vitality of this global community,” he said.

Despite the security challenges that remain, Tinubu expressed optimism about Nigeria’s prospects, highlighting the resilience and ambition of its people.

He described the country as one with “a diverse and vibrant society, young people who dream big, entrepreneurs with a global outlook, and a people full of hope and determined to realize their full potential.”

The President ended his speech with a toast “to the special bond between Nigeria and the UK, and to the bright future we will build together.”

The visit, taking place from March 18 to 19, is Nigeria’s first state visit to the UK in 37 years and is expected to result in several agreements covering trade, investment, defense and cultural cooperation, including a £746 million deal to upgrade the Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port.