Tinubu departs Abuja for UK state visit

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday departed Abuja for a two-day state visit to the United Kingdom, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between both countries.

The president departed the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at about 10 a.m., accompanied by the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.

The visit follows an invitation by King Charles III, who will host the Nigerian leader and his wife at Windsor Castle.

At the airport, the president was accorded formal send-off by senior government officials and top security chiefs.

Among those present were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.

The state visit is expected to culminate in the signing of agreements and memoranda of understanding across strategic sectors of the economy.

Key areas of cooperation include trade and investment, energy transition, solid minerals development and security collaboration between Nigeria and the UK.

During their stay, the British monarch and Queen Camilla will host the President and the First Lady to a special Royal Collection exhibition.

The exhibition will showcase artefacts and historic items linked to Nigeria, reflecting longstanding ties between both nations.

The visit is also expected to deepen diplomatic engagement and open new channels for economic and cultural cooperation between Nigeria and the UK.