Throughout history, Nigeria has enjoyed a unique relationship with the British Monarchy, marked by mutual visits that reflect shared historical, cultural, and diplomatic ties. Only three Nigerian leaders have been accorded the honor of state visits to Buckingham Palace: General Yakubu Gowon and his wife, Victoria (June 12–15, 1973), President Shehu Shagari (March 17–20, 1981), and General Ibrahim Babangida with his wife, Maryam (May 9–12, 1989). This distinction underscores Nigeria’s prominent place among African nations in royal diplomacy.
The British Monarch’s Visits to Nigeria
The late Queen Elizabeth II visited Nigeria twice, beginning in 1956 during her tour of the Commonwealth. Accompanied by her husband, Prince Philip, she traveled to Kaduna, Kano, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, and Lagos, and worshipped at the Cathedral Church of Christ in Marina, Lagos. She also commissioned celebrated Nigerian artist Ben Enwonwu to sculpt her bronze statue, a masterpiece completed in 1957.
Her second visit was in December 2003 for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Abuja, hosted by President Olusegun Obasanjo. She also toured Nasarawa State during the trip.
King Charles III: A Regular Visitor to Nigeria
Before his ascension to the throne, King Charles III, then Prince of Wales, visited Nigeria four times—in 1990, 1999, 2006, and 2018. His visits have been marked by significant events, including attending President Olusegun Obasanjo’s inauguration in 1999 and engaging with Nigerian leaders, traditional rulers, and creative talents during his 2018 tour.
The 1990 visit saw him and Princess Diana hosted by General Babangida in Lagos, where they stayed aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia. In 2006, Charles toured Abuja, Kaduna, and Kano to support Nigeria’s democratization efforts. His 2018 visit, alongside Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, focused on fostering ties with Nigerian youths, traditional rulers, and creatives, reflecting a modernized royal diplomacy.
A Legacy of Friendship
These interactions underscore the enduring relationship between Nigeria and the British Monarchy. Through shared history and frequent visits, both nations continue to strengthen their cultural and diplomatic bonds.
