At a historic State Banquet at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, King Charles III welcomed President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu with words that combined diplomatic recognition, cultural pride, and lighthearted humor.
The event marked a significant moment in UK-Nigeria relations, celebrating both the enduring friendship between the two nations and the growing influence of Nigerians in the United Kingdom.
Addressing the President and First Lady, the King acknowledged the sacrifice of travelling during Ramadan and extended his wishes for peace and blessings, saying, “I wish you, Mr President, peace, blessings, and an abundance of joy. Ramadan Mubarak!”
He reflected on his visits to Nigeria over the years, noting that the country has not merely changed but has “arrived.” With a population of over 230 million, half of whom are under eighteen, King Charles highlighted Nigeria’s energy, ingenuity, ambition, and resolve to address global challenges.
The King then turned to the Nigerian diaspora in the UK, describing them as “quiet heroes” whose contributions are deeply felt across healthcare, education, business, law, science, sports, literature, and the arts. He spoke fondly of hosting them at a recent “Jollof and Tea” gathering at St. James’s Palace, humorously noting, “I was firmly assured that the Jollof was only the best: Nigerian, of course… or perhaps Ghanaian or Senegalese. Diplomatically I cannot remember!”
It was during the toast that the most memorable moment of the evening occurred. Raising a glass to Nigerians and the Nigerian President, King Charles declared: “Naija No Dey Carry Last!”
The phrase, a colloquial expression meaning “Nigeria does not come last”, captured the nation’s vibrancy, resilience, and global influence, resonating with both the guests and Nigerians watching worldwide.
Beyond humor, the King emphasized the importance of Nigeria-UK ties, noting that the partnership is one of equals, with shared benefits in security, trade, and culture. He highlighted bilateral economic connections, including Nigerian banks in London, British schools and universities opening in Nigeria, and UK Export Finance supporting investments in Nigerian ports.
He also cited the contributions of Nigerians in sport and culture, from Afrobeats and Nollywood to footballers like Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze, and champion boxer Anthony Joshua.
King Charles praised the spiritual and cultural bonds between the nations, calling the relationship “a deeply spiritual connection beyond churches and mosques” and emphasizing how these ties strengthen security, empower communities, and create mutual prosperity.
He also acknowledged the past, noting historical chapters that may have left painful marks, but reinforced that the future is built on shared hope, partnership, and respect.The State Banquet thus combined ceremony, culture, and diplomacy, giving both leaders a platform to celebrate the dynamic links between Nigeria and the UK.
With Nigerians excelling across sectors, President Tinubu representing a country rich in talent and ambition, and King Charles recognizing these achievements with warmth and humor, the evening became a moment that highlighted friendship, pride, and the vibrancy of Nigerian culture on the global stage.