Windsor, United Kingdom — His Majesty King Charles III delivered a warm and symbolic address at Windsor Castle, hosting Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the First Lady, in a speech that highlighted deepening diplomatic, cultural, and economic ties between the United Kingdom and Nigeria.
Opening with a blend of Yoruba greetings and Ramadan goodwill, the King expressed gratitude for the President’s visit during the holy month, describing it as a meaningful gesture. He extended prayers for peace, blessings, and joy to Muslims in Nigeria and across the world.
Reflecting on his 2018 visit to Nigeria, the monarch praised the country’s rapid transformation, describing it as a nation that “has arrived.” He emphasized Nigeria’s youthful population—over half under the age of eighteen—as a powerful force equipped with the energy and ambition to tackle global challenges.
The King also celebrated the significant contributions of Nigerians in the United Kingdom, noting their impact across sectors including business, healthcare, education, law, sports, and the arts. He highlighted the cultural influence of Afrobeats and Nollywood, as well as the growing presence of Nigerians in British public life.
In a lighter moment, he referenced a recent “Jollof and Tea” gathering at St. James’s Palace, humorously sidestepping the long-standing debate over which country makes the best Jollof rice.
On economic relations, King Charles pointed to strengthening bilateral ties, citing increased trade, investment, and collaboration. He noted that Nigeria recently became the UK’s largest export market in Africa, with growing partnerships in finance, technology, education, and infrastructure. Travel and tourism between both countries have also surged, with millions exchanged in visitor spending.
Despite the celebratory tone, the King acknowledged the complexities of shared history between both nations, admitting that past events have left “painful marks.” However, he stressed the importance of learning from history to build a future grounded in mutual respect, growth, and cooperation.
He further underscored Nigeria’s role as a model of religious coexistence, referencing a meeting with Christian and Muslim leaders as a testament to the country’s longstanding example of interfaith harmony. He reaffirmed the UK’s support in addressing security and humanitarian challenges, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
Describing Nigeria as an “economic powerhouse” and an influential global voice, the monarch encouraged stronger collaboration within the Commonwealth, particularly in trade, regulation, and digital alignment. He echoed President Tinubu’s earlier remarks on the importance of strengthening intra-Commonwealth partnerships to drive economic growth and job creation.
Drawing on African proverbs, the King emphasized unity and adaptability in a changing world, noting that both nations must “learn new dance steps together” as global dynamics evolve.
He concluded his speech with advance Eid El-Fitr greetings and a toast to Nigeria’s people, ending on a spirited note with the popular phrase: “Naija No Dey Carry Last.”
The address reinforced a renewed commitment to a partnership framed as one of equals, built on shared values, cultural connections, and a vision for a collaborative future.
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