Windsor, United Kingdom — President Bola Tinubu has opened up about his time in exile in the United Kingdom during Nigeria’s dark years of military dictatorship, revealing that his residence was once placed under police protection due to threats from agents of the military regime.
Speaking on Wednesday at a state banquet hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle, President Tinubu expressed profound gratitude to Britain for its support to Nigerians involved in the pro-democracy struggle.
“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,” Tinubu said. “Like many Nigerians involved in the pro-democracy struggle, I found safety here, and I recall that my residence was placed under Metropolitan Police protection following threats from agents of the junta.”
Reflecting on the experience, Tinubu described returning to the UK as the president of a democratic Nigeria as “deeply humbling.”
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Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement reached a peak in the 1990s following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election won by Moshood Abiola under the military regime of Ibrahim Babangida, sparking widespread protests and resistance across the country.
Addressing contemporary challenges, President Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing security threats, particularly terrorism linked to instability in the Sahel region. He emphasized the importance of continued cooperation with the United Kingdom in safeguarding regional stability.
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“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,” he said, adding that he looked forward to engaging with Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Tinubu also expressed optimism about the future of bilateral relations, noting that both countries share a commitment to progress, mutual respect, and common values.
The state visit, accompanied by his wife Oluremi Tinubu, marks the first official visit by a Nigerian leader to the United Kingdom in 37 years, underscoring the renewed emphasis on diplomacy and partnership between the two nations.
