Ahead of the official state visit of Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to the United Kingdom, King Charles III hosted members of the Nigerian diaspora at a reception in St James’s Palace on Wednesday evening.
The event brought together prominent members of the Nigerian community in the UK and served as a prelude to the forthcoming state visit by President Tinubu and Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.
Also present at the gathering was Nigeria’s Acting High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Mohammed Maidugu.
The reception celebrated Nigerian culture and community while highlighting the growing ties between the UK and Nigeria. Guests were treated to traditional cuisine, including jollof rice, while entertainment was provided by Dele Sosimi and the Afrobeats Orchestra.
President Tinubu and the First Lady are scheduled to be hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle on March 18 and 19 as part of the official state visit.
Authorities in Windsor have announced heightened security measures ahead of the visit. According to Thames Valley Police, extensive arrangements will be put in place, including an expanded airspace exclusion zone and a major policing operation.
Although Windsor Castle already operates under permanent airspace restrictions, officials said the exclusion zone will be extended on March 18 from 07:00 to 23:59 GMT.
Police warned that anyone who violates the restriction is likely to face arrest.
In addition, several road closures and parking restrictions will begin on March 17 in preparation for the state visit. Motorists have been advised to expect temporary disruptions on roads around Windsor.
Authorities also noted that some pedestrian walkways and crossings in the town centre will be closed periodically between 09:30 and 12:30 on March 17 and 18 to allow for a ceremonial procession linked to the visit.
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