For the first time in 37 years, a Nigerian president will be embarking on a working visit to the United Kingdom.
On March 18, 2026, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will become only the fourth Nigerian leader to undertake a State Visit to the UK. The last Nigerian president to do so was General Ibrahim Babangida, who visited Queen Elizabeth II in May 1989.
Before Babangida’s visit, General Yakubu Gowon was hosted by the Queen in June 1973, and President Shehu Shagari paid a State Visit in March 1981.
According to the Royal Family, the two‑day visit will be hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle.
“The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accompanied by the First Lady, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu, has accepted an invitation from His Majesty The King to pay a State Visit to the United Kingdom from Wednesday, 18th March to Thursday, 19th March 2026,” a statement by the Royal Family stated.
According to the UK High Commission in Nigeria, the historic visit provides an opportunity to “further strengthen the enduring partnership” between the two nations.
