A SPEECH BY HIS MAJESTY THE KING CHARLES lll AT THE STATE BANQUET IN HONOUR OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA AND FIRST LADY OLUREMI TINUBU, Wednesday 18th March 2026

Your Excellency, Mr President, and Distinguished First Lady,

Ekabo. Se Daaa Daa Ni.

My wife and I are delighted to welcome you to Windsor Castle here on this occasion.

Ramadan Mubarak!

During my most recent visit to Nigeria in 2018, when I was fortunate enough to be able to spend some time with your highly respected traditional leaders, the Sultan of Sokoto, the Ooni of Ife, Onitsha, Warri, and The Emir of Kano, it was self-evident that while the warmth of the Nigerian welcome remains constant, the country itself is transforming at a remarkable pace.

We in the United Kingdom are blessed that so many people of Nigerian heritage, having chosen Britain as their home, are now at the heart of British life through excelling at the highest levels of business, technology, academia, law, science, sport, literature and the arts, and public service.

I have met so many of these quiet heroes in our schools, businesses, National Health Service and universities, including countless young people who have flourished through the work of my King’s Trust over the last fifty years. Only last week, I was delighted to host a rather lively group of them 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!

But who could have imagined that, when I first visited Nigeria thirty-six years ago today, so many of those I might have met would have gone on to have such an impact in the United Kingdom. From Afrobeats filling our concert halls and Nollywood captivating our screens, to stars competing in our Premier League and adjudicating our highest courts, so much of Britain’s culture is, in truth, profoundly enriched by Nigeria. Whether they are Nigerians who have chosen Britain as their adopted place to invest, trade or study, or Britons who cherish their personal connection to Nigeria, they all represent a living bridge of over half a million people who connect our nations, Mr President, and help make our cultures richer, our shared security stronger and our economies more prosperous.

We are proud that so many great examples of this living bridge join us this evening.

As the connections between our nations deepen every day, so too do the economic ties. Your visit has provided the opportunity to celebrate the fact that Nigeria is investing in Britain’s future as much as Britain is investing in Nigeria’s – leading Nigerian banks have chosen the City of London as a global base, examples of the best Nigerian companies have listed on London’s Stock Exchange, and U.K. Export Finance is supporting investment in Nigeria’s ports. In education, British schools and universities are opening their doors in Nigeria, and British and Nigerian technology companies are forming ever closer partnerships. I was pleased to see that visitors from Nigeria spent £178 million in Britain in 2024, and 251,000 people from Britain travelled to Nigeria and spent just as much, in return. In January of this year, Nigeria became the United Kingdom’s biggest export market in Africa and whilst I hear that in Nigeria the phrase ‘Made in U.K.’ has always symbolised the highest quality, it evidently now has a distinctively Nigerian flavour…

The friendship between our two countries, Mr President, is a partnership of equals that has brought us both enormous benefits. It has been described to me as a deeply spiritual connection – beyond churches and mosques – a deep bond through which we have strengthened our shared security, ensured our economies are more prosperous, and empowered each other to believe in a more hopeful future.

The many dynamic connections between our two nations have deep roots and yet I do not pretend that those roots are without a shadow. There are chapters in our shared history that I know have left some painful marks. I do not seek to offer words that dissolve the past, for no words can. But I do believe, as I know you believe, Mr President, that history is not merely a record of what was done to us – it is a lesson in how we go forward together to continue building a future rooted in hope and growth for all, and worthy of those who bore the pains of the past.

This afternoon, in another part of the Castle, Mr President, you and I witnessed one such example of how we are learning from one another when we met leaders of the British Christian and Muslim communities. The gathering was a deeply meaningful symbol of what Nigeria has long shown: that people of different faiths can, do, and must live alongside one another, in peace, in harmony and in shared purpose. It was also a timely reminder of the importance of standing with you – and in us strengthening your Quick Reaction Forces, or in providing food, nutrition and protection services in Northern Nigeria – when challenges disturb the age-old balance between these communities.

Your nation, Mr President, is an economic powerhouse, a cultural force and an influential diplomatic voice from a continent that is playing an increasingly important role in the world. In a vastly interconnected global environment, one that is changing at unimaginable speed, that leadership brings responsibility – and opportunity. I heed the Yoruba wisdom – and forgive me if I say it in English… that “rain does not fall on one roof alone”. As you observed so astutely before the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa in 2024, “if we didn’t have this global alliance… of fifty-six member states, 2.7 billion people and a combined G.D.P. forecast soon to surpass twenty trillion U.S. dollars… there would be a need to create one”. I believe firmly that, when rain clouds gather, we can tighten the grip of friendship between us and, in so doing, reinforce the central role of the Commonwealth in our shared future.

As the world changes, these are lessons we must heed now more than ever. As the Hausa saying goes, “when the music changes, so does the dance”. We can learn from Nigeria, and the best of the U.K. and Nigeria’s partnership, and harness the advantage that comes from our common languages, our similar legal systems, and the web of cultural ties and spiritual connections that provide such deep trust between us, and look to the future and learn new dance steps, together.

Mr President, you have spoken, in particular, of the importance of expanding intra- Commonwealth trade by creating shared standards, regulatory and digital alignment, and removing barriers that deter investment – as the U.K. and Nigeria’s Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership is just such an example – so that our economies can grow, in harmony with Nature, and create the millions of jobs our citizens need. So as we look towards C.H.O.G.M this year, I hope far from being past its time we can demonstrate that the Commonwealth’s time has come, as you so rightly said. In achieving that, my wife and I will gain strength from seeing Nigeria take her rightful place at the heart of the Commonwealth and to standing alongside you as a friend, who believes the future is best when built together. As the Igbo say, “Knowledge is never complete two heads are better than one”.

So as I close, Mr President, in anticipation of Eid El-Fitr in Nigeria and across the world, I can only wish you and the millions of Muslims in our countries, Eid Mubarak.

And, in doing so, let me propose a toast,

To the President and people of Nigeria –

“Naija No Dey Carry Last!” (Nigerians Never Come Last)

Over the past two years, Nigeria has undertaken significant monetary and structural reforms aimed at stabilising its macroeconomic environment.

Under the leadership of CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso, inflation has dropped sharply from 34 per cent to 15 per cent, exchange rate volatility has eased, and foreign reserves have risen above US $50 billion.

The Forum assessed the impact of these reforms and highlighted new opportunities for long-term capital mobilisation and diaspora investment.

Framed around three pillars (Nigeria’s macroeconomic reset, strengthening the financial system, and mobilising global and diaspora capital), the Africa Capital Forum seeks to build stronger bridges among Abuja, London, and the global financial community

By Aliyu Askira, Kano

The Kano State Government has finally announced that the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Lamido Sanusi II, will lead this year’s Eid-el-Fitr Durbar, even as it unveiled strict guidelines to prevent a breakdown of law and order during the celebrations.

In a statement yesterday by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the government said it remained committed to preserving Kano’s cultural heritage but would prioritize peace and security.

The government said the decision, approved by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, followed credible intelligence reports indicating attempts by some individuals to create unrest during the Sallah period, if more than one Emir is allowed to organize Sallah Durbar.

According to the statement, Hawan Idi (Eid Durbar) will be conducted by Emir Sanusi from the Kofar Mata Eid Ground through designated routes to Gidan Shettima, terminating at Kofar Fatalwa of the emir’s palace.

It added that Hawan Nasarawa would be held in a modified form without horseback displays, while Hawan Daushe, Hawan Fanisau and Hawan Dorayi have been suspended for the time being in the interest of public safety.

The government said all security agencies had been directed to intensify surveillance and ensure strict compliance with the directives before, during and after the festive period.

It urged residents to remain calm, law-abiding and cooperative with security agencies, while cautioning against the spread of unverified information.

The government further assured the public of its commitment to a peaceful and hitch-free Sallah celebration, wishing Muslims in the state a joyous Eid-el-Fitr.

The clarification is coming on the heels of an earlier letter by the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, to the State Commissioner of Police and other security agencies informing them of preparations to stage the 2026 Sallah Durbar celebrations despite the lingering Emirship dispute within the emirate.

The Sallah Durbar in Kano is regarded as one of the most prominent cultural events in northern Nigeria, attracting thousands of residents and visitors who gather to witness colourful displays of horsemanship, traditional regalia and royal pageantry.

Gov. Otu Assures Navy of Stronger Partnership

From Ene Asuquo, Calabar

Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening security collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, declaring that “security remains the foundation upon which every meaningful development must stand,” as he received Commodore Shuaib Ahmed , Commandant of NNS Victory, on a courtesy visit at Government House, Calabar.

Welcoming the naval chief, Governor Otu expressed delight at the visit, describing it as “a significant step in consolidating the enduring partnership between Cross River State and the Nigerian Navy.” He added, “Your presence here today is not only symbolic of institutional respect but also a reaffirmation of our shared resolve to keep our state safe and secure.”

The governor stressed that peace and stability remain non-negotiable prerequisites for progress, noting that “no society can truly prosper where insecurity thrives.” According to him, “our vision for Cross River is anchored on sustainable development, and that vision can only be realised in an atmosphere of peace, order, and collective vigilance.”

Commending the professionalism of the Navy, he stated, “We must place on record our deep appreciation for the sacrifices and discipline of officers and men of the Nigerian Navy. Your role, particularly within our maritime corridors, has been instrumental in curbing criminality and boosting confidence in our economic environment.”

Governor Otu further emphasized the importance of synergy, declaring that “security is not the sole responsibility of any single agency; it is a shared duty that requires cooperation, trust, and constant communication.” He assured the Navy that “this administration will continue to provide the necessary support to enhance your operational effectiveness within the limits of available resources.”

Governor Otu assured that the issues raised would receive due consideration, stating, “We recognize the critical role you play, and we will continue to engage constructively to ensure that your operations are not hindered.” He concluded, “Together, through sustained collaboration and shared commitment, we will build a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Cross River State.”

Earlier in his remarks, Commodore Shuaibu explained that the visit was in line with military tradition and personal responsibility. “Having recently assumed command, it is only proper that I pay my respects to Your Excellency and formally introduce myself,” he said. “It is also important that we align our operational focus with the strategic priorities of the state government.”

The Commandant expressed gratitude for the support extended to the Navy, noting that “the cooperation we have received from your administration has significantly enhanced our ability to discharge our duties effectively.” He added, “We do not take this partnership for granted, and we remain committed to sustaining it.”

Highlighting operational needs, Commodore Shuaibu stated, “Your Excellency, as security challenges evolve, there is a growing need to strengthen our infrastructure and communication systems.” He further noted, “The operationalisation of key naval facilities will greatly improve our capacity to address both legal and illegal activities within our maritime domain.”

Reaffirming the Navy’s readiness, he declared, “The Nigerian Navy stands ready, willing, and able to support the Cross River State Government in ensuring that our people can go about their lawful activities without fear.” He added, “In whatever capacity we are required, we will continue to render our services in the interest of peace and national security.”

Tinubu Administration has Given Nigeria Back its Lost Hope, Says Wike

By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday, said he is very happy and proud that he is part of this Renewed Hope Administration which has given Nigeria back the lost hope.

Wike stated this after inspecting the ongoing projects in Kaura, Apo-Karshi, Ushafa, Bwari, etc in Abuja.

He said he is very happy to serve, and anytime he sees the happiness in the faces of the people of Abuja, he is motivated to do more

“The motivation is for you to serve. I’m happy to serve. I’m happy that I’m part of this Renewed Hope Administration which has given Nigeria back the lost hope.

“You can see the happiness in the people who were at Kaura. The entire length of the road at Kaura is 13 kilometers. And so when we went to Apo karshi, you can see the quality of the contract, that road is not less than 13 kilometers too.

“Then when I came to Bwari, to Ushafa, you can see how happy the residents there were. Everyone has seen that in their life and it is one of those things that the president has said we must touch on all the satellite towns now. You can imagine how they feel for the first time. I’m sure they have seen the road that will bring development to those communities”.

“So, by and large, we’re happy with what we’re doing because the people are happy. When the people are happy, obviously, you have no choice but to be happy to know that the government is very impactful in their lives, the economy will change, as well as the governance”, he said.

The FCT Minister therefore said he is happy with the pace and the quality of the jobs.

He recalled the instructions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, when he became Minister, that he must ensure the satellite towns.

“And, like I said before, when the president was inaugurated, he appointed us. One of the things he said is there’s an over-concentration of development in the city. You have to go down to the satellite towns. That alone will help to discourage urban migration and rural-urban drift.

“People can now go from Kuje and go to work in the city. And so, it will take 35 minutes, you’re already in the city, so why do you have to say that you won’t stay in Kuje?”

On complaints he said, “Of course. In fact, there are some complaints that have come and we have been able to tackle it by making sure that the estate developers return funds to the innocent Nigerians that they tried to collect money from”.

On his message for Ramadan, the FCT Minister said, Abuja residents should expect more infrastructure and improvements in security.

‎”They should expect more infrastructure. In terms of security, we are going to improve the security as it is today.

“‎I wish everybody a happy Ramadan”.