The Prince and Princess of Wales played a significant role in hosting the Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, during their official state visit to the United Kingdom. This prominent occasion took place on 18 March 2026, marking the beginning of a two-day visit aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties between the UK and Nigeria.
Welcoming the dignitaries at the Fairmont Hotel in Windsor Great Park, Prince William and Princess Kate assumed their responsibilities as the royal welcoming committee. Their meeting with the Tinubus is part of a trend, as they have been the first to greet various world leaders during their state visits in recent years, including notable figures such as former US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump in September 2025.
Once the initial greetings had taken place, the royal couple accompanied the Nigerian President and First Lady on a ride to Windsor Castle. Upon their arrival, they were warmly welcomed by King Charles and Queen Camilla. The visit commenced with the playing of the national anthem, followed by a Royal Salute fired in honour of the guests at both Home Park in Windsor and the historic Tower of London.
During the ceremonial proceedings, the leaders gathered on the dais situated along Dachet Road. The formal introductions and presentations were made, which also included the playing of the Nigerian national anthem. This display of respect and protocol signifies the importance of such state visits in fostering international relationships.
As part of the royal escort, Prince William and Princess Kate led the Nigerian dignitaries through the streets of Windsor in elegantly appointed horse-drawn carriages. This journey allowed the guests to experience the picturesque surroundings of Windsor Castle, one of the most iconic landmarks in the UK.
At the quadrangle of the castle, a guard of honour from the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards was on hand to receive the visiting officials. Both President Tinubu and King Charles inspected the troops before rejoining Queen Camilla and First Lady Tinubu, along with William and Kate, to witness a ceremonial march past featuring The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery as well as the Sovereign’s Escort Rank and the Guard of Honour.
The state visit is set to include a variety of engagements throughout the day. Notably, the delegates will have the opportunity to view items from the Royal Collection that are linked to Nigeria, reflecting the historical connections between the two nations. The proceedings will culminate in a lavish state banquet hosted in St. George’s Hall at Windsor Castle, showcasing British hospitality and tradition.
The Tinubus arrived in the UK on the evening of 17 March, landing at Stansted Airport, situated north of London. Their visit comes almost two years after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s trip to Nigeria, emphasising the ongoing interest and engagement between the UK and African nations.
This state visit is particularly noteworthy as it marks the fourth such occasion hosted by the royals at Windsor Castle in recent times. With extensive renovations currently underway at Buckingham Palace—which are estimated to cost around £463 million—Windsor Castle has become a primary venue for royal and state engagements.
As they embark on this important diplomatic mission, the Prince and Princess of Wales are reinforcing their roles as modern representatives of the British monarchy, showcasing the UK’s commitment to nurturing international relationships. The state visit not only serves as a platform for discussion and collaboration but also highlights the ever-evolving nature of royal duties in the 21st century.