President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to embark on a two-day state visit to the United Kingdom, marking the first such diplomatic engagement by a Nigerian leader in 37 years.
The visit, scheduled to commence on March 18, 2026, follows an official invitation extended to President Tinubu by King Charles III, who will host the Nigerian leader and the First Lady at Buckingham Palace.
The planned visit is considered historically significant, as it will be the first UK state visit by a Nigerian president since 1989, when former military president Ibrahim Babangida visited the country. Earlier Nigerian leaders who undertook state visits to the UK include former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, in 1973, and former President Shehu Shagari in 1981.
According to officials, the visit is expected to further strengthen diplomatic, economic, and bilateral relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. It is also anticipated to provide a platform for discussions on trade, investment, climate cooperation, security, and other areas of mutual interest.
President Tinubu and King Charles III have previously met on international platforms, including during the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai.
The two leaders also held a private meeting at Buckingham Palace in 2024, where they discussed global environmental challenges and collaborative opportunities between both nations.
Buckingham Palace is expected to release further details of the visit, including the full itinerary and official engagements, in the coming weeks.
The visit underscores Nigeria’s continued diplomatic engagement with key global partners and reflects efforts by the Tinubu administration to strengthen international cooperation and economic ties.
