Full text: Tinubu’s speech at state banquet in Windsor Castle

Tinubu and Charles

SPEECH BY HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR

AT THE STATE BANQUET,

WINDSOR CASTLE,

MARCH 18, 2026

Your Majesty, King Charles III,

Queen Camilla,

Prince William, the Prince of Wales and Duke of Cornwall, and Catherine, the Princess of Wales,

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a profound honour to stand before you today, representing the people of Nigeria as we reaffirm the enduring bonds of friendship, history, and shared purpose that have united our two nations for several centuries.

Allow me first to express my sincere appreciation to Your Majesty and to Her Majesty, The Queen for the warmth and generosity extended to me, my wife, Oluremi, and the Nigerian delegation.

As the first Nigerian leader to speak here at Windsor Castle, which has served the British Crown for nearly a millennium, is particularly historic. Windsor has stood as a symbol of continuity, witnessing the steady evolution of institutions that have shaped governance, culture, and public life not only in Britain but far beyond these shores.

Nigeria and the United Kingdom have shared more than just history; our two nations share a vision of progress and resilience. Today, we continue that journey, committed to building a future rooted in partnership, mutual respect, and common values.

Standing here in Windsor Castle, one cannot help but reflect on Britain’s impact on modern democratic governance worldwide.