Britain’s King Charles has hailed what he calls a “partnership of equals” between the United Kingdom and Nigeria during a state banquet for President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday.
Tinubu is on a state visit to the UK, the first by a leader of Africa’s most populous nation in almost four decades.
Charles said people with ties to both Britain and Nigeria form a “living bridge” between the countries, calling Nigerians “quiet heroes” at the heart of British life.
Britain is home to a large Nigerian diaspora, with about 300,000 Nigerians living in the UK.
Acknowledging Nigeria’s past as a British colony, the monarch noted that there are “chapters that I know have left painful marks,” adding that “no words” could dissolve these.
UK moves to bolster role as African business hub
Trade between the two countries is at a record high, and the UK is using the two-day visit to highlight deep cultural and commercial links.
Nigeria’s presidency said the visit signalled a “renewed chapter” and reflected a shared commitment to “advancing trade and strengthening diplomatic ties.”
“Our two nations share a vision of progress” based on “mutual respect and common values,” Tinubu told the king in his speech.
Charles called Nigeria an “economic powerhouse,” saying it has “not just changed, but arrived.”
He highlighted growing investment ties, noting Nigerian banks in London and British financing for Nigerian port projects.
Guests at the banquet included ministers and business leaders as well as sports stars and cultural figures with Nigerian heritage.
Tinubu is due to meet Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday. He is also scheduled to meet members of the Nigerian community abroad.
Edited by: Dmytro Hubenko
