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Tinubu Reaffirms Strong Nigeria–UK Ties at Historic Windsor Castle State Banquet

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President Bola Tinubu with King Charles
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President highlights shared history, democratic values, diaspora contributions, and future security cooperation

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding relationship with the United Kingdom, declaring that the bond between both nations “will continue to grow” in the years ahead.

Tinubu made this known on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, during a state banquet held in his honour at Windsor Castle, where he delivered a landmark speech as the first Nigerian leader to address such a gathering at the historic royal residence.

Addressing King Charles III, Queen Camilla, senior members of the Royal Family, and distinguished guests, the Nigerian president described the occasion as a significant moment in the diplomatic history of both countries.

He expressed gratitude for the warm reception extended to him, his wife Oluremi Tinubu, and the Nigerian delegation, while emphasizing the enduring ties rooted in shared history, mutual respect, and common aspirations.

Tinubu noted that the relationship between Nigeria and the UK extends beyond colonial history, stressing that both nations are united by a shared vision of progress, resilience, and democratic governance.

He referenced historic milestones such as the Magna Carta, which he said laid the foundation for rule of law and parliamentary democracy globally. The president also acknowledged the intellectual contributions of British philosophers including Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Edmund Burke, whose ideas continue to shape modern governance systems.

On cultural influence, Tinubu highlighted the global impact of English literature, referencing iconic writers such as William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens, noting their role in shaping the English language spoken by over 1.5 billion people worldwide.

He further pointed out that Nigeria’s legal, parliamentary, and civil service institutions still reflect elements of British traditions, adapted to local realities.

Placing strong emphasis on people-to-people connections, the president described Nigerians in the UK as one of the most vibrant diaspora communities, contributing significantly across sectors. He noted their critical role in the UK’s healthcare system, particularly within the National Health Service, where Nigerian medical professionals form a substantial part of the workforce.

Tinubu also cited the achievements of individuals of Nigerian descent in sports, mentioning athletes such as Maro Itoje, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, and Anthony Joshua as symbols of the deep human connections between both countries.

On multilateral cooperation, the president highlighted Nigeria’s role within the Commonwealth of Nations, noting that the country remains committed to contributing to the growth and relevance of the 56-member body under the leadership of King Charles III.

Addressing security concerns, Tinubu pointed to the ongoing terrorism challenges in West Africa, particularly in the Sahel region, and underscored Nigeria’s responsibility in maintaining regional stability. He stressed the importance of continued collaboration with the UK and disclosed plans to meet with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to deepen security cooperation.

Despite prevailing challenges, Tinubu expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, describing the country as a nation driven by youthful energy, entrepreneurial spirit, and a strong determination to achieve its full potential.

In a personal reflection, the president recalled his time in exile during Nigeria’s military era, noting that the UK provided refuge and protection during the pro-democracy struggle—an experience he said remains deeply significant.

He concluded his speech with a toast to the enduring friendship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, expressing confidence in a brighter, shared future for both nations.

“God bless His Majesty The King. God bless Nigeria. God bless the United Kingdom,” Tinubu declared.

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Adubiaro Expresses Gratitude to Oyebanji Over Reappointment as Ekiti SSG

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Prof. Habibat Omolara Adubiaro
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Prof. Habibat Omolara Adubiaro has expressed profound gratitude to Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for reappointing her as Secretary to the State Government (SSG), describing the renewed mandate as an honour and a call to greater service.

Adubiaro, in a statement issued following the announcement of her reappointment, appreciated the governor for the confidence reposed in her capacity, dedication and commitment to the development of the state.

She pledged continued loyalty, diligence and commitment to the ideals and objectives of the Oyebanji administration, assuring that she would work towards the successful implementation of its policies, programmes and development agenda.

The SSG said her renewed appointment offered another opportunity to contribute meaningfully to building a peaceful, prosperous and progressive Ekiti State.

She also expressed appreciation to the First Lady of Ekiti State, Prof. Olayemi Oyebanji, for her encouragement, support and contributions to the growth and development of the state.

Adubiaro extended her gratitude to the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Dr. Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III, and Olori Abosede Adejugbe for their goodwill, prayers and support, noting the important role of traditional institutions in promoting peace, unity, cultural heritage and sustainable development.

She equally appreciated the Grand Imam of Ekiti State and President-General of the League of Imams and Alfas in Southwestern Nigeria, including Edo and Delta States, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere, as well as the Muslim community in the state, for their prayers, spiritual guidance and encouragement.

The SSG also acknowledged the leadership and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for their solidarity and support, reaffirming her commitment to the ideals of the party and collaboration with political leaders, government officials and other stakeholders to advance the administration’s development agenda.

She did not leave out her family members, friends, associates and well-wishers, whom she thanked for their congratulatory messages, prayers and expressions of goodwill following the announcement of her reappointment.

Adubiaro further pledged to discharge her responsibilities with professionalism, accountability, transparency, teamwork, humility and integrity, stressing that she remained conscious of the high expectations associated with public service.

She assured the people of Ekiti State of her determination to work closely with relevant stakeholders to translate the governor’s vision into tangible benefits for residents.

The SSG also prayed for God’s continued guidance, wisdom, strength and good health for Governor Oyebanji, while seeking peace, unity and prosperity for the state’s traditional institutions, religious leaders, political stakeholders, public servants and residents.

She reiterated her resolve to justify the confidence reposed in her through dedicated service and an unwavering commitment to the progress and development of Ekiti State.

 

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Oyebanji Makes First Appointments in Second Term, Retains SSG, Chief of Staff, CPS

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Ekiti State Governor,Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji
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Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has made his first set of appointments following his inauguration for a second term in office, retaining three key members of his administration.

The governor approved the reappointment of Professor Habibat Adubiaro as Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo as Chief of Staff, and Mr Olayinka Oyebode as Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor.

The appointments were announced on Friday, October 16, 2026, shortly after Oyebanji and his deputy, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Christianah Afuye, were inaugurated for another term in office in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital.

According to a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Olayinka Oyebode, the appointments take immediate effect.

The decision to retain the three principal officials ensures continuity in key administrative, executive and communication positions as the governor begins his second term.

As Secretary to the State Government, Professor Adubiaro occupies a strategic position in the coordination of government policies, administrative processes and inter-agency relations.

Similarly, Adebayo, as Chief of Staff, is responsible for supporting the governor’s office and coordinating executive activities, while Oyebode oversees official communications and media relations for the state government.

The reappointments constitute the first official appointments announced by Oyebanji since his inauguration for a second term, signalling the continuation of the existing leadership structure in these critical offices.

The statement did not indicate whether further appointments would be announced in the coming days.

The announcement was signed by Olayinka Oyebode, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ekiti State.

 

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Bamidele Hails Oyebanji’s First Term, Says Peaceful Politics Drove Ekiti Development

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Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele
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Senate Leader and Chairman of the Ekiti State Governorship Campaign Council, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has described the first term of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji as remarkably peaceful, attributing the achievement to the governor’s humility, sense of duty and inclusive leadership style.

Bamidele said Oyebanji’s ability to foster cordial relationships among political stakeholders across the state had created an enabling environment for development and progress in Ekiti State.

The Senate Leader stated this in his welcome address at the second-term inauguration of Governor Oyebanji and his deputy, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Christianah Afuye, in Ado-Ekiti.

He commended the governor for sustaining a peaceful political atmosphere, noting that cooperation among political leaders and stakeholders had contributed significantly to the state’s developmental strides.

Reflecting on Ekiti State’s political and developmental journey from the administration of its first civilian governor, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, through subsequent administrations, including that of former Governor Kayode Fayemi, Bamidele said Oyebanji had continued to strengthen the culture of political stability and peaceful coexistence.

He noted that the governor’s leadership approach had helped sustain a harmonious political environment, allowing the state to focus on governance and development rather than political divisions.

Bamidele further described Oyebanji’s re-election as a historic milestone, noting that the governor had broken a longstanding political barrier by becoming the first governor in Ekiti State to secure consecutive second-term mandates.

He expressed confidence that the governor’s second term would provide further opportunities to consolidate the achievements of his first administration and advance the development of the state.

 

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