King Charles III hails Nigeria as ‘economic powerhouse’ at Windsor banquet for Tinubu

King Charles III has praised Nigeria’s rising global influence and deep cultural impact on British society while hosting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at a state banquet in Windsor Castle.

Delivering a speech on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, the British monarch described Nigeria as an “economic powerhouse, a cultural force and an influential diplomatic voice,” underscoring the growing importance of the country on the global stage.

Welcoming Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, the King opened with greetings in Yoruba, reflecting cultural respect, and acknowledged the President’s visit during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, extending “peace, blessings, and joy” to him and Muslims worldwide.

The monarch recalled his 2018 visit to Nigeria, where he met prominent traditional rulers including the Sultan of Sokoto and the Ooni of Ife, noting that Nigeria has since transformed significantly.

“Nigeria hasn’t merely changed. It has arrived,” he said, pointing to the country’s youthful population and growing ambition to tackle global challenges.

King Charles highlighted the strong contributions of Nigerians in the United Kingdom across sectors such as healthcare, business, academia, and the arts, describing them as a “living bridge” connecting both nations. He noted that over half a million people of Nigerian heritage in the UK continue to strengthen economic, cultural, and security ties.

He also referenced Nigeria’s growing cultural influence, from Afrobeats music to Nollywood films and the presence of Nigerian-descended athletes in the English Premier League, stating that British culture has been “profoundly enriched” by Nigerian talent.

On economic relations, the monarch revealed increasing bilateral engagement, noting that Nigeria has become the UK’s largest export market in Africa as of January 2026. He added that Nigerian businesses are investing in the UK, with major banks operating in the City of London and Nigerian firms listed on the London Stock Exchange.

The King further disclosed that Nigerian visitors spent £178 million in the UK in 2024, while over 250,000 Britons travelled to Nigeria within the same period, reflecting strong people-to-people and commercial ties.

Addressing historical relations, King Charles acknowledged that aspects of the shared past between both nations carry “painful marks,” but emphasised the importance of learning from history to build a future based on mutual respect and cooperation.

On security and development, he reiterated the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria, particularly in strengthening rapid response capabilities and providing humanitarian assistance in northern regions affected by instability.

The monarch also stressed the importance of the Commonwealth of Nations as a platform for shared growth, echoing Tinubu’s earlier call for stronger intra-Commonwealth trade and cooperation.

Quoting African proverbs and referencing Nigeria’s leadership role, King Charles urged both countries to deepen collaboration in trade, innovation, and diplomacy, especially in a rapidly changing global environment.

He concluded his remarks with goodwill messages ahead of Eid celebrations and a toast in honour of Nigeria, ending with the popular phrase, “Naija No Dey Carry Last,” to applause from guests.

The banquet formed part of President Tinubu’s ongoing state visit aimed at strengthening diplomatic, economic, and security ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.