King Charles III on Wednesday evening welcomed members of the Nigerian community living in the United Kingdom to a special reception held ahead of the planned state visit of President Bola Tinubu.
The visit will be the first official state visit to Britain by a Nigerian leader in about 37 years.
The Wednesday event took place at a royal location that was not publicly disclosed.
Guests were served Jollof rice and enjoyed live music performed by Dele Sosimi alongside the Afrobeats Orchestra.
Sharing details of the gathering on its official X account on Thursday, British Royal Family described the reception as “a wonderful evening.”
“Last night, The King hosted a reception with members of the Nigerian diaspora in the UK, ahead of the incoming State Visit of the President of Nigeria.
“With jollof rice and music by Dele Sosimi and the Afrobeats Orchestra — it was a wonderful evening. Thank you to everyone who joined us,” The Royal Faily said.
President Tinubu and his wife, Oluremi Tinubu, are expected to arrive in the UK as guests of King Charles and Queen Camilla from Wednesday, March 18, to Thursday, March 19, 2026.
The previous state visit by a Nigerian leader to the UK took place in 1989, when former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida was hosted for four days by the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Ahead of Tinubu’s arrival, authorities in Britain have announced extensive security arrangements around Windsor Castle.
Thames Valley Police, working with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household and other security agencies, said that restrictions on the airspace above Windsor Castle will be extended on March 18 from 7:00 a.m. until 11:59 p.m.
Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall said several security teams will be deployed during the visit.
These include armed officers, search teams, mounted police, road policing units and Project Servator teams. Authorities will also rely on surveillance cameras and protective barriers designed to stop hostile vehicles.
In addition, some roads will be closed and parking will be restricted starting Tuesday, March 17.
Officials warned that drivers and residents in and around Windsor may experience temporary traffic disruptions during the presidential visit.
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