Tag: Bola Tinubu

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Tinubu signs ₦68.32trn 2026 budget, extends 2025 spending deadline

President Bola Tinubu has signed the 2026 Appropriation Bill into law, authorising an aggregate expenditure of ₦68.32 trillion for the current fiscal year.

He also signed a separate bill extending the implementation period of the 2025 budget from March 31 to June 30, 2026.

The budget allocates ₦4.799 trillion for statutory transfers and ₦15.8 trillion for debt service.

It further sets aside ₦15.4 trillion for recurrent expenditure and ₦32.2 trillion for capital expenditure through the Development Fund.

The presidency made the disclosure in a statement signed by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga on Friday.

The statement read, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assented to the 2026 Appropriation Bill, which provides for an aggregate expenditure of ₦68.32 trillion. He has also signed the bill extending the implementation period for the 2025 budget from March 31, 2026, to June 30, 2026.

“The N68.32 trillion budget for this year earmarks N4.799 trillion for statutory transfers and N15.8 trillion for debt service. It allocates N15.4 trillion to recurrent expenditure and N32.2 trillion to the Development Fund for Capital Expenditure.

“With capital expenditure accounting for about 50 per cent, the 2026 budget underscores the administration’s continued commitment to economic stability, national security, infrastructure development, and inclusive growth.

“The allocations reflect a strategic balance between statutory obligations, debt servicing, recurrent expenditure, and capital investments critical to driving productivity and improving the quality of life for Nigerians,” it added.

The 2026 Appropriation Act took effect on April 1, with the Federal Government commencing full implementation in line with what the presidency describes as the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Tinubu also assented to the Appropriation (Repeal and Enactment) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which extends the capital component of the 2025 Appropriation Act by three months to June 30.

The presidency said the extension would ensure the full utilisation of appropriated funds, particularly for critical infrastructure projects at advanced stages of implementation.

“The extension will ensure the full and effective utilisation of appropriated funds, particularly for critical infrastructure and development projects that are at advanced stages of implementation across the country.

“It will enable Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to consolidate ongoing works, enhance project completion rates, and maximise value for public expenditure,” the statement read.

Tinubu directed MDAs to ensure disciplined, transparent, and efficient utilisation of allocated resources, with strong emphasis on value for money and timely project delivery.

He commended the leadership and members of the National Assembly for what the presidency described as their “diligence, cooperation, and patriotism in expeditiously considering and passing the budget.”

“The President reaffirmed the importance of sustained collaboration between the Executive and Legislative arms of government in advancing national development objectives,” the statement noted.

Tinubu also assured Nigerians of his administration’s resolve to deepen fiscal reforms and boost revenue generation.

“He further assured Nigerians of his administration’s resolve to deepen fiscal reforms, enhance revenue generation, and prioritise investments that will stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen social protection mechanisms,” the statement read.

The budget, titled “The Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity,” was originally presented to a joint session of the National Assembly on December 19, 2025, at a proposed sum of ₦58.47 trillion.

It passed second reading in the House of Representatives on January 29, 2026, before going through further legislative scrutiny and emerging at ₦68.32 trillion at the point of assent.

During the second reading debate in January, House Leader Julius Ihonvbere had urged lawmakers to support the proposal, pointing to a projected 3.98 per cent economic growth rate for 2026, a projected drop in inflation to 14.45 per cent, improved revenues, and foreign direct investment growth.

He also cited a stabilisation of the naira at around ₦1,400 to the dollar and a rise in Nigeria’s external reserves to a seven-year high of approximately $47 billion.

When Tinubu presented the bill to lawmakers in December, he described it as a defining moment in Nigeria’s reform journey, acknowledging the pressures the process had placed on households and businesses while insisting the sacrifices were necessary.

“The path of reform is seldom smooth, but it is the surest route to lasting stability and shared prosperity,” he told the joint session. (Punch)

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Tinubu vows to defeat insecurity, praises Gov Abiodun for Gateway Airport

President Bola Tinubu has reassured Nigerians that the country will ultimately overcome banditry and terrorism despite current challenges.

He made the remarks while delivering a speech at the commissioning of the state-owned Gateway International Airport and Ogun State’s aircrafts in Iperu, Ikenne Local Government Area.

The president emphasised that Nigeria is on a path of development and greatness, driven by ongoing reforms in critical sectors of the economy, which have restored investor confidence.

“We will win over banditry and terrorism. I gave you the assurance that we will invest more in our people. Thank God for our youths, they are committed, brilliant and working hard. Nigeria, our country, is resolved to be great and is on the path to greatness once again,” Tinubu said.

The President added, “I sincerely appreciate the opportunity we have today to celebrate the remarkable vision of a governor and his predecessors. Today, we commission the economic nerve centre of our corridor.”

“In less than seven years, you, Dapo Abiodun, have demonstrated commitment, vision, and patriotism to grow Nigeria. We celebrate your contribution to national development. I have no regrets for whatever we have done with you.

“As your President, I am pleased to see that the increase in federal allocations is being effectively and judiciously used to build our country. I congratulate the people of this great state for supporting a government that is delivering measurable progress, and I thank you for your continued faith in our nation.”

Highlighting the people-centered nature of his administration’s investments, Tinubu said, “The Lord is liberating Nigeria from past mismanagement. We are back as a nation, well respected and highly recognized.”

He noted that the Gateway Airport is connected to investments in gas and energy and praised Governor Abiodun’s broader development projects, saying they reflect a commitment to progress that must “touch every level.”

Tinubu also commended Abiodun’s agricultural initiatives and the rollout of 1,000 electric bikes, describing them as “a smart response to modern transportation needs.”

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who also attended the ceremony, thanked Tinubu for making the effort to participate and called the event a significant milestone in Ogun State’s history.

He commended Governor Abiodun for building the airport, noting that it is a landmark project.

“I’ve landed here from Abuja, and it took me 45 minutes to reach my home — at least 25 minutes shorter than if I had landed in Lagos. I want to thank our governor for doing us proud. I am happy to witness this historic occasion,” Obasanjo said.

He also recalled being part of the “conspiracy” to create Ogun State 50 years ago and noted that the level of development achieved under Abiodun is beyond what anyone could have imagined.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio lauded Tinubu for reforms that have, in his view, relieved states of salary arrears and other financial burdens. He also commended Governor Abiodun for constructing the Gateway Airport and for the judicious use of increased federal allocations.

Governor Abiodun, visibly elated by the president’s presence, described it as deeply symbolic. He praised Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” saying it has positioned Nigeria as a competitive investment destination and inspired confidence among local and international investors.

He highlighted that when he assumed office, he realized that for Ogun State to maximize its proximity to Lagos, the administration had to close the infrastructure gap.

Over the last seven years, Abiodun said, his government has enhanced trade mobility, expanded infrastructure, and positioned Ogun as one of the fastest-growing economies in Nigeria through deliberate policies that promote economic development.

Abiodun also highlighted accomplishments in transportation, housing, healthcare, energy, agriculture, security, and environmental sustainability.

He noted the construction of over 1,600 kilometers of roads, including the Epe-Ijebu Ode Expressway, Sango-Abeokuta Expressway, Ilishan-Iperu Road, and the Sagamu–Iperu–Ode Remo–Sapade Expressway, now renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Expressway, which serves as a bypass to the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The state has also developed the Muhammadu Buhari Estate, offering 100 semi-detached and fully detached housing units, and over 7,000 affordable homes.

In healthcare, Abiodun pointed to 140 completed and equipped primary healthcare centers and the 200-bed Gateway Medical Centre of Excellence, now affiliated with the Abuja Medical Centre of Excellence, which he said reduces the need for medical travel and positions Ogun as a hub for medical tourism. Energy projects, including the 34.1-megawatt Onijanganjangan Independent Power Project, are supporting industrial growth and economic expansion, while mechanized farming initiatives are strengthening food security across the state.

The administration has also deployed 100 pickup vehicles and other infrastructure to support law enforcement, and introduced electric bikes to promote sustainable urban transportation and mitigate the impact of rising fuel prices.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by governors of Zamfara, Bayelsa, Taraba, Ekiti, Ondo, Niger, and Lagos states, as well as the deputy governors of Oyo and Lagos. Former Ogun State governors Senators Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun, Chief Olusegun Osoba, Dr. Olatokunbo Awolowo-Dosumu, Ambassador Femi Pedro, Minister of Culture and Creative Economy Hannatu Musawa, CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso, Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo, chairmen of Dangote and BUA Groups, Femi Otedola, Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, CEO of Zenith Bank, and Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adeniyi were also in attendance. (Channels)

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Easter: Tinubu urges political restraint, civic maturity ahead of 2027 elections

President Bola Tinubu in his Easter message yesterday, urged Nigerians, particularly political leaders to embrace restraint, responsibility and civic maturity ahead of the 2027 general elections, while also assuring citizens of his administration’s commitment to building a safer and more secure nation through intensified efforts to tackle terrorism, banditry, and other security threats.

Also yesterday, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, canvassed for care of the needy and less privileged in society, while Governors and other political leaders charged Nigerians to leverage on the spirit of the season to show love and tolerance for one another.

In his Easter message, addressed to Nigerians at home and abroad, the President acknowledged that, despite the sacrifices of the Armed Forces and other security agencies, challenges to national security have persisted.

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Tinubu called for political responsibility, restraint, and civic maturity, stressing that the Election Act must guide the conduct of political parties and actors to safeguard democracy, peace, and national stability.

His words: “As the nation gradually approaches another electoral cycle, this season also serves as a call to civic duty and maturity. The Electoral Act must guide the conduct of our political parties and political actors. Let our choices be guided by a shared commitment to peace, continuity, stability, and the long-term good of our country. Democracy flourishes where responsibility, restraint, and informed participation prevail.”

The President expressed optimism that the country is on the path to recovery, citing improving economic indicators as evidence that the right choices are being made.

He, therefore, urged Nigerians to keep faith with the administration’s vision of a safer, stronger and more prosperous nation.

“Fellow Nigerians, you have been very supportive of my administration because you trust our ability to make our nation better. I will continue to serve to retain your trust. I enjoin you to keep the faith and never cease to contribute to the progress and greater future we seek, each in our own way, to the emergence of a democratically stronger, more prosperous, and safer nation,” Tinubu further said.

According to him, the government was making available the necessary resources and strengthening foreign partnerships to enable security agencies to deal decisive blows to terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements.

His words: “Despite the good efforts of the administration and the gallant efforts of our men and women of the Armed Forces who leave behind their families to confront the evil actors in our land, challenges to our security have remained. However, my administration continues to make resources available and forge foreign partnerships to enable us to deal decisive blows to the agents of terror and banditry.”

Tinubu noted that following his condolence visit to Jos, Plateau State, where he commiserated with victims of the recent deadly attack, security chiefs had given strong assurances of progress, while international support was also mobilised to reinforce Nigeria’s response.

He added: “On Thursday, I was in Jos to commiserate with people of Plateau State, share in their grief, and offer reassurances of better days to come. The leaders of the nation’s security institutions have given strong assurances of progress. We have also sought and are receiving assistance from outside our shores.”

He further assured residents of other parts of the country facing one form of insecurity or another that concerted government actions are beginning to produce results, urging citizens to support lawful efforts, remain united, and reject forces that threaten the country’s collective peace and stability.

“I am reassured that the citizens appreciate our efforts. I will continue to remind us of the imperative of unity and oneness. No nation can thrive where fear prevails, and no progress can be sustained without peace.”

The President said no nation can make meaningful progress where fear prevails, assuring communities affected by violence that better days lie ahead.

Tinubu said Easter season symbolises sacrifice, resilience, and the triumph of light over darkness, noting that its message resonates strongly with Nigeria’s present realities as the nation navigates economic stress and security challenges.

Also, wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, charged Nigerians to remember the needy in society and extend necessary support to them.

In her Easter message, the First Lady in a four-paragraph release titled ‘The Blessed Hope in Christ’s Resurrection,’ stated, inter alia: “Easter is a reminder of the enduring power of love and the selfless sacrifice of Jesus Christ and the hope His resurrection brings to all humanity.

“As we celebrate Easter with our loved ones, friends, neighbours and communities, let us remember those in need and extend compassion and support wherever we can.

“May the spirit of Easter inspire us to uplift the vulnerable, love one another, make sacrifices when necessary and work together to build a peaceful and prosperous nation for all.” (ThisDay)

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Tinubu honours soldiers with new welfare fund on 74th birthday

President Bola Tinubu, has announced the establishment of a special fund to support members of the Armed Forces, including injured personnel and families of fallen soldiers, as he marked his 74th birthday.

In a statement released on Sunday, the President said he had instructed the Accountant-General of the Federation to open a dedicated account for the initiative.

“On this my 74th birthday, I celebrate the valiant men and women of our Armed Forces,” Tinubu said.

He explained that the fund is intended to provide financial support for service members wounded in active duty as well as the dependents of those who lost their lives in service to the nation.

“Today, I have directed the Accountant-General of the Federation to establish a special account for a fund dedicated to those who serve, those wounded in the line of duty, and the families of those who have paid the ultimate price,” he stated.

Tinubu also pledged to contribute his personal earnings since assuming office as seed funding for the initiative.

“As a personal commitment, all my salaries since assuming office will be paid into this account as seed funding, irrespective of existing insurance and welfare schemes for members of our armed forces,” he said.

He further called on state governors, federal lawmakers, private sector actors, friends, and other stakeholders to support the initiative.

“I call on our governors, members of the National Assembly, the private sector, my friends and all well-wishers to support this initiative. Details of the account will be made available in due course,” the President added.

Tinubu stressed the importance of recognising the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families, describing the initiative as a duty rather than charity.

“We must never forget those who stand in harm’s way for our peace, nor the sacrifices borne by their families. This is not charity. It is duty. And we will fulfil it,” he said.

In the personally signed statement, the President also expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their goodwill messages on his 74th birthday, noting that he deliberately chose a subdued celebration.

He thanked citizens across the country for their prayers and support, saying such goodwill continues to strengthen his administration. (Leadership)

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Foreign Affairs Minister Tuggar resigns

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has resigned.

The minister’s action followed the directive of President Bola Tinubu to all political appointees in his administration who intend to contest elective positions in the 2027 elections to resign from their posts on or before March 31.

The president had hinged his decision on Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2026 and the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party primaries ahead of the 2027 polls.

Tuggar’s resignation comes amid the speculation of his interest in contesting the 2027 Bauchi State governorship election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He is a seasoned diplomat, policymaker, and political figure who was appointed as minister by Bola Ahmed Tinubu in August 2023.

Born on March 12, 1967, he has built a distinguished career spanning diplomacy, politics, energy, and strategic consulting.

He is widely regarded for his role in shaping Nigeria’s global engagement and advancing its foreign policy priorities.

His political career includes serving as a member of the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011, representing the Gamawa Constituency in Bauchi State.

The diplomat later contested the governorship of the state in two election cycles.

From 2017 to 2023, Tuggar served as Nigeria’s ambassador to Germany, where he played a key role in strengthening bilateral relations, enhancing trade cooperation, and promoting Nigeria’s interests in Europe.

As Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tuggar led Nigeria’s diplomatic efforts under the Tinubu administration. (Channels)

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Tinubu’s UK visit has repositioned Nigeria on global stage, says Oluwole Oke

Oluwole Oke, chairman of the house of representatives committee on foreign affairs, says President Bola Tinubu’s two-day official visit to the United Kingdom has repositioned Nigeria on the global stage.

Following an invitation from King Charles III, Tinubu departed Abuja on Tuesday for London, accompanied by his wife and other top government officials.

The state visit, scheduled to end on Thursday, represents the highest level of diplomatic engagement hosted by the British monarchy and marks the first visit of such scale by a Nigerian leader to the UK in 37 years.

Speaking on Channels Television on Wednesday, Oke, who represents Obokun/Oriade federal constituency of Osun state in the green chamber, said beyond economic benefits, Tinubu’s UK visit has elevated Nigeria’s profile internationally.

“This state visit is not just an honour to the President and his family, but to all Nigerians,” he said.

“For the United Kingdom to invite a president on a state visit, they must have strong confidence in our reforms and in the governance under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

During the visit, Tinubu is expected to meet with Keir Starmer, UK prime minister, in a high-level bilateral engagement aimed at strengthening ties between Nigeria and Britain.

Reports indicate that a major highlight of the visit is the signing of a £746 million financing agreement between UK export finance, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and the Federal Ministry of Finance.

Oke said at the end of the visit, the British government will be looking forward to numerous opportunities for partnership between the two countries.

He also noted the importance of the maritime deal, which he said, would create jobs and generate huge revenue for the federal government.

“This kind of investment will have linkage effects that will snowball into employment,” he said.

“Participants in that sector will make profits, pay taxes, and, as you know, public finance relies on taxation. So, it is a positive development, and there will be many win-win outcomes. This invitation has further repositioned Nigeria on the global stage.” (TheCable)

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Starmer pushes strategic UK-Nigeria alliance with N1.4tn fresh deal

The United Kingdom and Nigeria have sealed new export agreements as both countries committed to taking their economic partnership to another level, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Thursday.

Starmer made the disclosure during a bilateral meeting with President Bola Tinubu at 10 Downing Street on the second day of the Nigerian leader’s historic state visit to Britain.

“Today is the opportunity to take that to another level with the agreements that we’ve been able to reach on exports, and I think that shows we can go even further than we’ve already gone,” the British Prime Minister stated.

Tinubu, in his remarks, revealed that Nigeria is currently undergoing “very strong reform of the economy” and linked the terrorism challenges facing West Africa to climate change conflict.

“We need more trade agreements and economic relationships that we build between nations. Nigeria is currently going through a very strong reform of the economy,” Tinubu said during the meeting at 10 Downing Street.

The President described Nigeria as facing significant challenges, stating, “The largest country in West Africa, and on the continent, is challenged by terrorism coming from the conflict of climate change.”

Tinubu emphasised that both countries face global economic challenges, noting, “Currently, the entire world is challenged. Nigeria is not immune. Britain is not immune.”

He said the discussions focused on the “economic welfare of the people and how we can work together to improve livelihood” amid economic volatility.

The President affirmed that Thursday’s bilateral discussions would address what Britain can do to “accelerate the friendship, partnership and collaboration” between both nations.

On his part, Prime Minister Starmer described the visit as historic, noting it was the first inward state visit for 37 years by a Nigerian leader.

“The long and shared history between our countries is obvious and much valued, as is the people-to-people contact and engagement that enriches lives here in the United Kingdom,” Starmer said.

He noted that both countries already collaborate on economy, defence, and security matters but expressed determination to deepen the partnership.

“Today is the opportunity to take that to another level with the agreements that we’ve been able to reach on exports,” the Prime Minister stated.

Nigeria became the United Kingdom’s biggest export market in Africa in January 2026, with bilateral trade continuing to expand.

King Charles III had disclosed on Wednesday night at a state banquet that visitors from Nigeria spent £178m in Britain in 2024, while 251,000 people from Britain travelled to Nigeria and spent just as much in return.

The state visit, which began on Wednesday, March 18, saw the signing of several memoranda of understanding and agreements covering trade, investment, defence, and cultural cooperation.

A major outcome already announced is a £746m financing deal involving UK Export Finance, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and the Ministry of Finance for the refurbishment of Lagos Port Complex (Apapa) and Tin Can Island Port.

The bilateral meeting at Downing Street followed Wednesday night’s state banquet at Windsor Castle, where King Charles III acknowledged “painful marks” in the shared history between both nations while praising Nigeria’s transformation and the contributions of the Nigerian diaspora to British society.

The state visit, the first by a Nigerian president since 1989 when former military leader Ibrahim Babangida was hosted by Queen Elizabeth II, concludes on Thursday with President Tinubu expected to return to Nigeria. (Punch)

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‘I found safety here,’ Tinubu recounts UK’s protection during pro-democracy struggle

President Bola Tinubu has recalled how he found refuge in the United Kingdom during Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle, stating that British authorities once placed his residence under police protection amid threats from agents of the military regime.

Tinubu made the remarks on Wednesday during a state banquet hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle.

In his address, the Nigerian leader expressed gratitude to the UK for its support during the years of military rule.

“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,” he said.

He added that such solidarity remains significant, noting it was “deeply humbling” to return as President of a democratic Nigeria.

igeria’s pro-democracy struggle reached its peak in the 1990s following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election won by Moshood Abiola under the regime of Ibrahim Babangida. The decision triggered widespread protests and resistance.

Repression intensified during the rule of Sani Abacha, marked by arrests, assassinations, and the execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa and the Ogoni Nine, drawing international condemnation.

Sustained pressure from pro-democracy groups, including civil society organisations and the media, eventually paved the way for a transition to civilian rule under Abdulsalami Abubakar in 1999, ushering in the Fourth Republic with Olusegun Obasanjo as President.

The legacy of the struggle endures, notably through the recognition of June 12 as Democracy Day and ongoing efforts to honour its key figures.

Tinubu also highlighted Nigeria’s current security challenges, particularly terrorism linked to instability in the Sahel, stressing the importance of continued cooperation with the UK.

“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,” he said, adding that he looked forward to meeting Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

The President further expressed confidence in the future of bilateral relations, noting that both countries share a commitment to progress, mutual respect, and common values.


He also pointed to Nigeria’s role within the Commonwealth of Nations as a platform for strengthening ties.

Reflecting on historical and institutional links, Tinubu acknowledged the influence of British legal and political traditions on Nigeria’s governance system, including its courts, parliamentary structures, and civil service.

He also praised the contributions of Nigerians in the UK, describing them as the “strongest bridge” between both nations, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, business, technology, and the arts. (Channels)

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State Visit: Tinubu meets UK PM Keir Starmer

President Bola Tinubu has met Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer as part of his two-day state visit to the United Kingdom.

They met on the steps of 10 Downing Street in central London on Thursday.

The president’s historic state visit to the UK is the first state visit by a Nigerian president in 37 years (since the last one before the return to democracy in 1999).

Tinubu arrived in the UK on Tuesday, where he was received by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle.

The visit included royal engagements, a state banquet, and discussions on various bilateral issues. It involved closed-door bilateral talks.

The president is expected to sign a £746 million financing deal related to port infrastructure, along with other agreements/MoUs on trade, defence, and culture.

Today also marks the final day of the visit, after a farewell from the royal family. (Channels)

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King Charles hosts Tinubu to state banquet, hails UK–Nigeria partnership

King Charles III on Wednesday praised what he described as a “partnership of equals” between the United Kingdom and Nigeria, as he hosted Bola Tinubu at a state banquet marking the first visit by a Nigerian leader in nearly four decades.

he banquet, held at Windsor Castle, brought together senior officials, business leaders, and cultural figures from both countries, underscoring deepening diplomatic and economic ties.

In his opening remarks, King Charles described the relationship between both nations as built on mutual respect and shared progress.

“Britain and the former British colony have a deep bond and a partnership of equals that has brought us both enormous benefits,” he said.

The monarch also highlighted Nigeria’s growing economic influence.

“Nigeria is an economic powerhouse. It has not merely changed, it has arrived,” he said, adding that “Nigeria is investing in Britain’s future as much as Britain is investing in Nigeria’s.”

King Charles paid glowing tribute to Nigerians living in Britain, describing them as central to the country’s development.

“We in the United Kingdom are blessed that so many people of Nigerian heritage… are now at the heart of British life,” he said.T

The King noted their contributions across sectors, including business, technology, academia, law, science, sports, literature, and the arts.

“I have met so many of these quiet heroes in our schools, businesses, National Health Service, and universities, including countless young people who have flourished through the work of my King’s Trust over the last 50 years,” he said.

He added with humour, “Only last week, I was delighted to host a rather lively group of them to a jollof and tea party at St. James’s Palace. I was firmly assured that the jollof was only the best — Nigerian, of course… or perhaps Ghanaian or Senegalese. Diplomatically, I cannot remember.”

The monarch also acknowledged Nigeria’s cultural footprint in Britain, referencing Afrobeats, Nollywood, and Nigerian excellence across professions.

“From Afrobeats filling our concert halls and Nollywood captivating our screens… so much of Britain’s culture is in truth profoundly enriched by Nigerians,” he said, before concluding: “Naija no dey carry last.”

Acknowledging history, King Charles noted that while the relationship has evolved, it is not without its challenges.

“There are chapters in our shared history that I know have left painful marks… no words can dissolve these,” he said.

The King also thanked Tinubu for visiting during Ramadan, describing it as “no small sacrifice,” and wished him “Ramadan Mubarak.” The banquet—adjusted to accommodate fasting—featured an iftar and provisions such as a prayer room.

Tinubu, while responding, echoed the sentiment.

“Our people remain the strongest bridge between our two countries,” he said, pointing to their impact in healthcare, sports, and beyond.

“Our two nations share a vision of progress based on mutual respect and common values,” President Tinubu added, noting he was the first Nigerian leader to speak at Windsor Castle.

Also in attendance were the wife of the President, Oluremi Tinubu; Queen Camilla, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Chief Wale Edun; National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribad; and President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio.

The attendees include the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd.); Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani; Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Ms. Hannatu Musawa; and Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, among other cabinet members.

Governors in attendance were Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Peter Mbah (Enugu), and Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), among others.

Other prominent guests at the banquet included Maro Itoje, Christine Ohuruogu, Eniola Aluko, Ben Okri, and Tiwa Savage—figures the King described as a “living bridge” between both nations.

Earlier, President Tinubu was received with full state pageantry, including a guard of honour and a ceremonial gun salute, as artillery rang out across Windsor.

Nigerian and British flags lined the streets while the President and the King inspected troops in traditional regalia.

The visit, part of a two-day state engagement, is aimed at strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, security, and education, while also recognising the role of the Nigerian diaspora in the UK.

It is the first visit by a Nigerian president in 37 years.

President Tinubu is scheduled to meet Keir Starmer and engage with members of the Nigerian diaspora as part of the visit.

The trip builds on longstanding ties between both countries, with London hosting a large Nigerian community that continues to play a vital role in strengthening bilateral relations. (Channels)