…Hails Nigeria as Tinubu wraps historic UK visit
A blend of humour, cultural celebration, and high-level diplomacy marked the climax of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s historic state visit to the United Kingdom, as King Charles III declared Nigerian jollof rice “the best in Africa” while reaffirming strong bilateral ties between both nations.
Speaking during a grand state banquet held in honour of President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, the British monarch drew laughter with a playful nod to the long-running “jollof wars” among West African countries.
“Only last week, I was delighted to host a rather lively group of Nigerians for a ‘Jollof and Tea’ party at St James’s Palace. I was firmly assured that the jollof was only the best: Nigerian, of course… or perhaps Ghanaian or Senegalese. Diplomatically, I cannot remember!” he joked.
The light-hearted moment underscored a deeper cultural appreciation, as the King celebrated Nigeria’s rich heritage and the global influence of its cuisine, with jollof rice standing out as a symbol of identity and pride across West Africa. In a warm gesture that resonated with the Nigerian delegation, King Charles greeted guests in Yoruba, saying: “Ẹ káàbọ̀, şé dáadáa ni,” and later raised a toast with the popular phrase, “Naija no dey carry last,” drawing applause from attendees.
Beyond the humour, the monarch used the occasion to highlight the immense contributions of Nigerians in the UK, describing the diaspora as a “living bridge” connecting both nations. He praised their impact across business, healthcare, academia, technology, sports, and the arts, as well as their roles in institutions such as the National Health Service and universities. King Charles also acknowledged young Nigerians supported through his King’s Trust initiative over the past five decades, referring to many as “quiet heroes” shaping communities and driving innovation.
In his remarks, the King described Nigeria as an “economic powerhouse” and a “cultural force”, emphasising its youthful population and growing global influence.
He pledged continued British support for Nigeria’s security efforts, particularly in addressing insurgency in the northern regions, while also stressing the importance of deepening collaboration in trade, infrastructure, and regional stability. Highlighting Nigeria’s rising global profile, he noted that the country had become the UK’s largest export market in Africa as of January 2026.
The monarch further commended Nigeria’s tradition of interfaith co-existence, describing it as a vital example in countering divisions often exploited by extremist groups.
The state visit formally concluded at Windsor Castle, where King Charles and Queen Camilla bade farewell to President Tinubu and the First Lady, marking the end of the UK leg of the trip.
President Tinubu is expected to proceed with further engagements, including talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, as part of ongoing efforts to consolidate diplomatic, economic, and security partnerships.
The visit – Nigeria’s first State Visit to the UK in nearly four decades – reflected a renewed commitment by both countries to build a forward-looking relationship grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and expanding opportunities for cooperation.
