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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
The UK’s King Charles III has welcomed Nigerian President Bola Tinubu at Windsor Castle in the first state visit by the leader of Africa’s most populous nation in nearly four decades.
More than 1,000 soldiers were out in force on Wednesday for the diplomatic show of soft power by the royal family.
With trade between the two countries at a record high, Charles is using the two-day visit to highlight the pair’s deep cultural and commercial links.
Tinubu has made less formal visits to the United Kingdom several times during his tenure, and the two countries remain major partners in trade, aid and defence. London is also home to a large Nigerian diaspora of about 300,000 people.
Nigeria’s presidency said the visit signalled a “renewed chapter” and reflected a shared commitment to “advancing trade and strengthening diplomatic ties”.
King Charles and Queen Camilla greeted the president and his wife in Windsor, west of London, as artillery fired salutes.
Both Nigerian flags and Union Jacks fluttered amid the procession.
The Nigerian president and his wife earlier chatted with heir-to-the-throne Prince William and his wife Catherine, at a hotel in the town.
Calling the visit “historic”, London announced Nigerian companies, including banks, are expanding operations and creating hundreds of jobs in the UK, strengthening it as a global hub for African business.
The party then rode in carriages to the historic Windsor Castle.
Later, the king and queen showed the president and first lady items from the UK’s colonial rule of Nigeria, which existed until 1960. (AlJazeera)
The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described the passing of former Green Eagles midfielder and youngest member of the 1980 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) squad, Henry Nwosu, as a great loss to the country.
Nwosu passed away early Saturday morning at the age of 62. The news of his passing was announced by Nigerian football legend Segun Odegbami on his social media platforms.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, mourned the loss of Nwosu and extended his heartfelt condolences to the Nwosu family, the Imo State Government, and the Nigerian Football Federation.
He said: “The death of Henry Nwosu is a painful loss to the country, particularly football lovers, because we lost a patriot, legend, and national icon. He made Nigeria proud by winning the African Nations Cup in 1980 for the country.
“Henry Nwosu served the nation passionately and made the country proud by working tirelessly with other members of the Green Eagles to secure Nigeria’s first continental title on home soil.
“He was the youngest member of the 1980 AFCON squad, widely celebrated for his role in Nigeria’s triumph at the tournament. He was a talented midfielder known for his creativity and technical ability.
“Henry Nwosu was passionate about sports, particularly football. He made positive impacts while playing for the national team and later became a prominent figure in Nigerian domestic football.
“Henry Nwosu will be sorely missed. I pray for eternal peace for the deceased, and that God will grant the family, friends, Imo State Government, and football fans the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.” (Channels)
Britain will impose airspace restrictions and deploy armed police officers in Windsor next week as President Bola Tinubu arrives for a state visit hosted by King Charles III.
Tinubu is expected to begin the visit in the company of his wife Oluremi Tinubu on Wednesday, March 18, with a reception at Windsor Castle.
Thames Valley Police in a statement on its website on Wednesday, said it is working with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household and other security partners.
The force said airspace restrictions over Windsor Castle, which are in place permanently throughout the year, would be extended on Wednesday, March 18, to cover the period from 7am to 11.59pm.
Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of Thames Valley Police’s Joint Operations Unit said the air restrictions formed part of a broader security operation for the visit.
“The air restrictions are just one part of our robust security operation for the state visit of Nigerian President Tinubu next week, with many measures you will see and others you will not..
“As a force, we have a vast amount of experience in policing Royal events in Windsor and significant planning, and preparation has gone into this event,” Hall said.
He said the force would take a strong stance in enforcing the restrictions, warning that any breach would constitute a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order and could lead to arrest.
“We will be taking a strong stance in enforcing the restrictions; anyone who breaches them will be committing a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order and could be arrested.”
The police chief said officers with specialist capabilities, including search teams, the Mounted Section, road policing, and armed units, would be deployed across Windsor, alongside neighbourhood policing and Project Servator resources.
“We will also be deploying numerous police officers to Windsor with specialist capabilities, including our search teams, Mounted Section, Roads Policing and armed units, while our neighbourhood and Project Servator resources will also be on the ground engaging with the public,” he said.
The authorities will also deploy an extensive closed-circuit television network, hostile vehicle mitigation barriers, and other undisclosed security measures for the event.
Hall said, “We will also be using the extensive CCTV network in Windsor, Hostile Vehicle Mitigation barriers, and many other security measures that you may not be able to see to make sure the event runs safely.”
He urged members of the public to support the security operation by remaining vigilant.
“The public plays a critical role to support us so we encourage them to report any suspicious activity or anything that does not seem quite right by calling 101 or speaking to one of our officers. If there is an immediate threat or emergency, then call 999,” Hall added.
Road closures and parking restrictions will take effect from Tuesday, March 17, with possible temporary disruption to roads in and around Windsor during the visit.
Thames Valley Police said it was being supported by the Civil Aviation Authority and National Air Traffic Services to enforce the flight restrictions. Persons with legitimate reasons for drone flying were directed to email TVPAirspaceRequests@thamesvalley.police.uk. (Punch)
Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, opened their campaign at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament with a commanding 33-point victory over Colombia.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that D’Tigress defeated Colombia 70–37 on Wednesday to secure their first win of the tournament, currently taking place in France.
Nigeria led 18–12 in the opening quarter with impressive displays, but Colombia responded strongly to edge the second quarter 17–16.
D’Tigress dominated the second half, outscoring Colombia 19–5 in the third quarter and 17–3 in the fourth to seal an emphatic victory.
The win marked Head Coach Rena Wakama’s 14th victory since her appointment in 2023.
Since taking charge, Wakama has overseen 18 competitive matches, winning 14 and losing four.
Her achievements include guiding Nigeria to the 2023 and 2025 FIBA Women’s Afrobasket championship titles.
D’Tigress currently rank eighth in the FIBA world rankings, reflecting consistent progress and strong performances in recent international competitions.
One of their most notable achievements remains reaching the quarter-finals of the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.
Technically, the result again highlighted the growing gap between Nigeria and several emerging basketball nations.
Nigeria controlled the tempo, defended aggressively and converted transition opportunities efficiently throughout the game.
Victoria Macaulay led the scoring with 13 points, delivering the performance in 14 minutes and 20 seconds on the court.
Ifunaya Okoro also finished in double figures, contributing 10 points after playing 28 minutes and one second.
Nigeria will face South Korea in their next group match scheduled for Thursday. (Punch)
Nigerian travellers to the United Kingdom will begin receiving electronic visas instead of physical visa stickers from February 25, 2026.
The announcement was made in a statement on Monday by the Senior Communications Officer at the British High Commission in Abuja, Onyinye Madu.
“From 25 February 2026, all Nigerian nationals applying for a UK Visit visa will receive an eVisa, rather than a vignette (sticker) in their passports,” the statement said.
Under the new system, the commission said successful applicants will access their visa electronically through a UK Visas and Immigration account, marking a shift toward a fully digital visa process.
It explained that the requirements for Nigerian applicants remain unchanged, saying “Travellers will continue to apply online, attend a Visa Application Centre to provide biometric information, and meet all existing eligibility criteria.”
The only change, it noted, is the format in which the visa is issued, saying that instead of a physical sticker, applicants will receive a secure digital record of their immigration status.
It added that Nigerians who already hold valid vignette stickers do not need to take any action, as their physical visas will remain valid until they expire or require replacement.
Highlighting the benefits of the transition, the commission stated, “The move to eVisas brings a number of benefits for Nigerian travellers. Passports will be returned more quickly, and travellers can manage their immigration status online at any time, from any location. The digital format offers stronger security as eVisas cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with.”
Also commenting on the development, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Abuja, Gill Lever, said the change would simplify the process for travellers.
“We are committed to making it easier for Nigerians to travel to the UK. This move to digital visas will streamline a key part of the visa process, making it more secure while reducing dependence on paper documents. We look forward to continuing to welcome Nigerian visitors, students and workers to the UK,” she said.
According to the statement, once a visa application is approved, applicants will be required to create a free UKVI account to access their eVisa. (Punch)
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