London, United Kingdom – When Nigerian President Bola Tinubu arrives in the UK this week, the visit will carry more than ceremonial significance. It will be the first state visit by a Nigerian leader to Britain in 37 years.King Charles III and Queen Camilla are to host Tinubu and first lady Oluremi Tinubu at Windsor Castle from Wednesday to Thursday.Recommended Stories list of 4 itemsend of listThe last Nigerian state visit, considered one of Britain’s most important diplomatic tools, took place in 1989 when then-military ruler Ibrahim Babangida met Queen Elizabeth II.“It’s the first time since Nigeria returned to democracy [in 1999] that a democratically elected Nigerian head of state is being afforded this honour by the British monarchy,” said Ikenna Okonkwo, data integrity lead at the Nigerian intelligence consultancy SBM Intelligence.The visit comes at a time when both countries are trying to deepen economic cooperation.Nigeria is one of Britain’s most important partners in Africa. Trade between the pair was worth more than 8 billion pounds ($10.6bn) in the year to October.In 2024, they signed a trade and investment partnership aimed at expanding business opportunities.Among members of the UK’s Nigerian community, there are mixed feelings about the visit.London-based business owner Monica, who requested Al Jazeera withholds her surname, expressed scepticism about whether it will bring tangible change.“What is he [Tinubu] coming here for? He needs to sort out the issues at h …
