Nigeria, UK must nurture trade, economic relationship rooted in shared values –Tinubu

*President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in his speech, at a ceremony at Windsor Castle, in London, underlines the importance of immense contributions of Nigerians resident in the UK, stating the Nigerian community in the country has become one of ‘the most dynamic Diaspora communities worldwide’

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has reaffirmed the enduring bonds of friendship, history, and shared purpose that have united Nigeria and the United Kingdom (UK) for several centuries.

Tinubu stated this in his speech delivered Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at the Windsor Castle, in London, United Kingdom.

His Majesty, King Charles III and Queen Camilla along with Prince William, the Prince of Wales and Duke of Cornwall, and Catherine, the Princess of Wales, as well as several other top British and Nigerian officials were in attendance at the welcome ceremony.

The President, in his speech, first expressed his appreciation to British Majesty King Charles III and to Her Majesty, The Queen for their warmth and generosity extended to him and his wife, First Lady (Senator) Oluremi, and the Nigerian delegation to the UK.

He also noted: “As the first Nigerian leader to speak here at Windsor Castle, which has served the British Crown for nearly a millennium, 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 not only in Britain but far beyond these shores.”

The President as well acknowledged that his country and the United Kingdom have shared more than just history.

“Our two nations share a vision of progress and resilience.

“Today, we continue that journey, committed to building a future rooted in partnership, mutual respect, and common values,” Tinubu said.

The Nigerian President highlighted Britain’s impact on modern democratic governance worldwide.

According to him, the Magna Carta of 1215 laid the early foundations for the rule of law and the development of parliamentary democracy, establishing enduring ideals around liberty, accountable government, and civic responsibility.

President Tinubu equally acknowledged that Great British thinkers and writers, including Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Edmund Burke helped to propagate those democratic ideals.

“Their influence continues to resonate to this day,” he stated.

Likewise, the President acknowledged the ensuring contributions of the literary genius of William Shakespeare, and other writers, such as Charles Dickens, who enriched and shaped the English language, spoken by over 1.5 billion people across the world.

“In Nigeria, elements of these traditions continue to inform the institutional foundations of our own republic.

“Our courts draw upon legal traditions rooted in English common law. Our parliamentary institutions reflect constitutional practices that evolved here over centuries,” stated he.

UK is home to Diasporan Nigerians, declares Tinubu

Underlining the importance of immense contributions of Nigerians resident in the UK, President Tinubu affirmed

the Nigerian community in the country has become one of “the most dynamic Diaspora communities worldwide”.

He averred: “Nigerians contribute enormously to the vitality of this nation.

“Within the National Health Service, Nigerian doctors and nurses play an indispensable role in delivering healthcare.

“Nigerian-trained doctors are among the largest groups of international medical professionals serving the NHS.”

Similarly, in sports, President Tinubu mentioned Rugby players, including Maro Itoje, footballers, such as Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze, and champion boxer Anthony Joshua, to illustrate the remarkable human connection that links Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

He said: “Our partnership is further strengthened through the Commonwealth of Nations, which connects 56 countries under Your Majesty’s leadership.

“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.”

On measures to tackle menace of complex terrorism for regional stability

Explaining the measures to address the growing menace, President Tinubu said entire West African region faces complex terrorism challenges with roots in the Sahel.

He stated: “Nigeria carries an enormous responsibility to help safeguard regional stability.

“In confronting these threats, partnership with the United Kingdom remains essential and I look forward to my meeting with Prime Minister Kier Starmer tomorrow.”

The Nigerian leader, however, said despite the challenges of terrorism, Nigeria approaches the future with hope and confidence.

“We are a nation of diverse and vibrant people, of young people dreaming big, of entrepreneurs with a global outlook, and of a hopeful people determined to realise their full potential.

“Your Majesty, I am confident that the friendship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom will continue to grow,” noted he.

Tinubu: How UK protected me on pro-democracy struggle under late Sani Abacha

Recalling his personal experience during the dark days of Military rule Nigeria, particularly under the late Sani Abacha era, President Tinubu expressed the country’s “deep gratitude” to the UK for the refuge and support it extended during the dark years of military dictatorship.

He also said: “Like many Nigerians involved in the pro-democracy struggle, I found safety here (UK), and I recall that my residence was placed under Metropolitan Police surveillance for protection following threats from agents of the junta.

“That solidarity remains etched in our collective memory, and it is deeply humbling for me to stand before Your Majesty today as the President of a democratic Nigeria.”

Tinubu, therefore, lauded His Majesty, Her Majesty The Queen, Prince William and Catherine, the Princess of Wales, other members of the Royal Family, and the people of the United Kingdom for their longstanding friendship.

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