President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday stated that the country’s collaboration with the United Kingdom in addressing insecurity remained crucial, adding that he planned to discuss Nigeria’s counter-terrorism initiatives and challenges to regional stability during his meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday (today).
At a state banquet hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle on Wednesday night, the President revealed the information. This was the first time a Nigerian leader has spoken to an audience at the famed British royal home.
The dinner on Wednesday, which started at 9:00 p.m. (local time), was one of the events scheduled for Tinubu’s current state visit to the UK.
Join our WhatsApp community
“Our West African region faces complex terrorism challenges with roots in the Sahel. Nigeria carries an enormous responsibility to help safeguard regional stability.
“In confronting these threats, partnership with the United Kingdom remains essential and I look forward to my meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer tomorrow (today),” Tinubu said.
The President further stated that he sought safety in the United Kingdom during the military dictatorship of former President Gen. Sani Abacha.
He said that after threats from military junta operatives, the Metropolitan Police put his home under surveillance for security.
READ ALSO: King Charles III Receives Tinubu, First Lady, With Full Military Honours
In an expression of appreciation, Tinubu said that the UK’s assistance during what he referred to as “the dark years of military dictatorship” was extremely humble and that the solidarity is still ingrained in Nigerians’ cultural consciousness.
He said, “Your Majesty, I wish to express Nigeria’s deep gratitude to this great nation for the refuge and support it extended during the dark years of military dictatorship.
“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.
“That solidarity remains etched in our collective memory, and it is deeply humbling for me to stand before Your Majesty today as the President of a democratic Nigeria.”
Join our WhatsApp community
Tinubu underlined the continuing ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom in his statement at the banquet, which was attended by King Charles III, Queen Camilla, Prince William, the Prince of Wales, and Catherine, the Princess of Wales.
Being the first Nigerian leader to speak at Windsor Castle, which has served the British Crown for almost a millennium, he called his appearance there particularly historic.
“As the first Nigerian leader to speak here at Windsor Castle, which has served the British Crown for nearly a millennium, is particularly historic,” he stated.
Join our WhatsApp community
Additionally, Tinubu emphasised the important contributions made by the Nigerian expatriate population in the UK, especially in the National Health Service.
He highlighted Nigeria’s place in the Commonwealth of Nations, characterising it as one of the biggest countries in the 56-member body led by King Charles III.
Join Our Social Media Channels:
