President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has arrived in Lagos in the early hours of Friday following a two-day state visit to the United Kingdom.
According to his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President and the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, touched down at about 1:15 a.m. at the Presidential Wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport.
They were received by top government officials and party members, including Lagos State Deputy Governor Femi Hamzat and Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, alongside other members of the All Progressives Congress.
The President is expected to join Muslim faithful in observing Eid al-Fitr prayers at Dodan Barracks.
In his Sallah message, Tinubu urged Nigerian Muslims to uphold the values of Ramadan. “We have a lot to draw from the noble lessons of Ramadan, especially at a time like this. We must continue to abide by the virtues of piety, selflessness, perseverance, kindness and compassion beyond this period,” he said.
Prior to his return, the President held bilateral talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Downing Street, where both countries agreed on a £746 million deal to refurbish two major ports in Lagos.
Tinubu described the visit—his first to the UK since assuming office and the first by a Nigerian leader in 37 years—as “very thrilling and significant” for strengthening bilateral ties. “We cannot forget the institutional development we have enjoyed over the years,” he said, noting that discussions covered trade, the economy, climate change, terrorism and broader global challenges.
At Windsor Castle, King Charles III hosted the President and First Lady, where Tinubu reaffirmed the enduring relationship between both nations. “Our two nations share a vision of progress and resilience. Today, we continue that journey, committed to building a future rooted in partnership, mutual respect and common values,” he said.
The state visit featured a ceremonial reception, including a guard of honour and a 42-gun salute, as well as engagements with the Nigerian diaspora and business leaders. It also culminated in the signing of several agreements spanning trade, investment, defence, cultural cooperation and energy transition.
