UK announces road closures, airspace restrictions ahead of Tinubu’s state visit

Authorities in the United Kingdom have announced road closures, extended airspace restrictions and heightened security measures ahead of the state visit of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu.

Tinubu is expected to arrive on Wednesday, March 18, alongside his wife, Oluremi Tinubu, for a state reception hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Thames Valley Police said it is working with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household and other security partners to ensure the visit proceeds safely.

The police said existing airspace restrictions over Windsor Castle would be extended on March 18, covering the period from 7:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.

Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of the Joint Operations Unit said the airspace controls form part of a wider security plan for the presidential visit.

“The air restrictions are just one part of our robust security operation for the state visit of Nigerian President Tinubu next week, with many measures you will see and others you will not,” Hall said.

He added that the force has extensive experience policing royal events in Windsor and has carried out significant planning and preparation for the visit.

Authorities warned that breaching the airspace restrictions would constitute a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order, which could result in arrest.

Police also said officers with specialist capabilities—including search teams, mounted units, road policing teams and armed officers—would be deployed across Windsor. Additional neighbourhood policing teams and Project Servator officers will also be present to engage with the public.

Security measures will also include the use of an extensive CCTV network, hostile vehicle mitigation barriers and other protective arrangements.

Hall urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity by contacting police via 101 or 999 in emergencies.

Meanwhile, road closures and parking restrictions around Windsor will take effect from Tuesday, March 17, and may cause temporary disruptions in the area during the visit.

Thames Valley Police said it is being supported by the Civil Aviation Authority and National Air Traffic Services to enforce the flight restrictions. Individuals with legitimate reasons to operate drones during the period were advised to apply for clearance through the police.