President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has excluded Kemi Badenoch from his two-day state visit itinerary to the United Kingdom, which began on Wednesday.
On the first day of the visit, Tinubu met with King Charles III and Queen Camilla, held discussions with interfaith groups, and attended a state banquet where both he and the monarch delivered speeches. He is expected to meet Keir Starmer on Thursday.
Although it is customary for visiting heads of state to meet opposition leaders, Badenoch was neither formally introduced to Tinubu nor included in official engagements during the visit.
Badenoch, who has Nigerian roots, has previously made critical remarks about Nigeria, describing it as plagued by corruption and recounting an alleged encounter with police misconduct. Her comments have drawn criticism from Nigerian officials, including Vice-President Kashim Shettima.
During the visit, Tinubu and King Charles engaged with religious leaders at Windsor Castle to address concerns over violence linked to alleged religious persecution in Nigeria. While some international observers describe the situation as targeted attacks on Christian communities, the Nigerian government maintains that the violence is part of broader terrorism affecting multiple groups.
At the state banquet, Tinubu praised Nigerians in the UK for their contributions, particularly highlighting their role in the National Health Service. He also emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to tackling terrorism in the Sahel and strengthening cooperation with the UK.
King Charles acknowledged Nigeria’s growing importance to the UK, especially in trade and economic partnerships. The visit—Nigeria’s first state visit to Britain in 37 years—is aimed at deepening bilateral ties and fostering economic collaboration.
Ahead of the trip, both countries finalized major investment deals expected to create jobs and expand Nigerian business operations in the UK. A £746 million agreement to modernize ports in Lagos is also expected to be signed.
Meanwhile, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the King to raise concerns about human rights issues in Nigeria, including restrictions on free expression and the use of legal actions against journalists and activists.
Despite the diplomatic significance of the visit, Tinubu’s large delegation has drawn criticism at home, with some Nigerians questioning the cost and timing, especially amid ongoing security challenges. Reports of deadly attacks in Katsina State during the visit have further fueled concerns.
Nevertheless, the visit has featured strong symbolic gestures, including cultural exchanges, royal receptions, and adjustments to the schedule to accommodate Ramadan observance.
Additionally, Nigeria is advancing an education partnership with Coventry University to establish a campus in Lagos. The proposed institution would offer UK-accredited degrees locally, making international education more accessible and affordable for Nigerian students.
