President Bola Tinubu has said Nigeria is set to strengthen its security partnership with the United Kingdom as both countries move to confront growing terrorism threats across West Africa.
Speaking on Wednesday night at a state banquet hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle, Tinubu stressed that collaboration with the UK remains critical to tackling insecurity, particularly with the evolving threats in the Sahel region.
“Our West African region faces complex terrorism challenges with roots in the Sahel. Nigeria carries an enormous responsibility to help safeguard regional stability,” the President said.
“In confronting these threats, partnership with the United Kingdom remains essential and I look forward to my meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer tomorrow (today).”
The dinner, part of Tinubu’s ongoing state visit to the UK, marked a historic moment as he became the first Nigerian leader to address a gathering at Windsor Castle, a symbolic seat of the British monarchy.
Reflecting on his past, Tinubu recalled how the UK offered him refuge during the military regime of General Sani Abacha, noting that the Metropolitan Police once placed his residence under surveillance for protection.
“Like many Nigerians involved in the pro-democracy struggle, I found safety here… 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,” he said.
Beyond security, Tinubu highlighted the enduring ties between both nations, pointing to shared legal traditions, strong diaspora contributions especially in the UK’s health sector and growing cooperation in trade, defence and investment, as both countries look to deepen strategic engagement in the years ahead.
