By Frontline Reporters
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday said Nigeria’s collaboration with the United Kingdom in tackling insecurity remains crucial, noting that he would discuss Nigeria’s counter-terrorism initiatives and regional stability challenges during a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Tinubu made the disclosure Wednesday night during a state banquet hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle, marking the first time a Nigerian leader has addressed a gathering at the historic British royal residence.
The dinner, which began at 9:00 p.m. local time, formed part of activities lined up for Tinubu’s ongoing state visit to the United Kingdom.
Speaking on security cooperation, the President said Nigeria faces complex terrorism threats, particularly from extremist groups operating across the Sahel region.
“Our West African region faces complex terrorism challenges with roots in the Sahel. Nigeria carries an enormous responsibility to help safeguard regional stability,” Tinubu said.
“In confronting these threats, partnership with the United Kingdom remains essential, and I look forward to my meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer tomorrow,” he added.
Tinubu also recalled that the United Kingdom offered him refuge during the military dictatorship of former Head of State Sani Abacha in the 1990s.
He said the Metropolitan Police Service placed his residence under surveillance for protection following threats from agents of the military junta.
Expressing gratitude, Tinubu described the UK’s support during what he called the “dark years of military dictatorship” as deeply humbling, adding that the solidarity remains firmly etched in Nigeria’s collective memory.
“Like many Nigerians involved in the pro-democracy struggle, I found safety here, and I recall that my residence was placed under Metropolitan Police surveillance for protection following threats from agents of the junta,” the President said.
Tinubu’s remarks referred to his years in exile during Abacha’s regime, when several pro-democracy activists fled Nigeria amid widespread human rights abuses.
The President also highlighted the enduring historical and institutional ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, noting that Nigeria’s legal and parliamentary systems draw heavily from British traditions rooted in English common law.
He further acknowledged the contributions of the Nigerian diaspora in Britain, particularly in the National Health Service, where Nigerian doctors and nurses form one of the largest groups of international medical professionals.
Tinubu cited notable British sports stars of Nigerian heritage, including rugby player Maro Itoje, footballers Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze, and heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua, as examples of the strong human connection between the two nations.
He also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the Commonwealth of Nations, describing the country as one of the largest members of the 56-nation organisation under the leadership of King Charles III.
Despite the country’s security challenges, Tinubu expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, describing the nation as one filled with energetic young people, innovative entrepreneurs and citizens determined to realise their full potential.
The President’s state visit to the United Kingdom, scheduled for March 18–19, is the first by a Nigerian leader in 37 years, the last being in 1989 when former military President Ibrahim Babangida was hosted by Queen Elizabeth II.
The visit is expected to produce several agreements and memoranda of understanding covering trade, investment, defence and cultural cooperation, including a £746 million financing deal for the upgrade of Nigeria’s major seaports.
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