Authorities in the United Kingdom have announced strict security measures ahead of the state visit of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, warning that anyone who violates airspace restrictions around Windsor will face arrest and prosecution.
According to Thames Valley Police, the security operation is being coordinated with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household, and other partners to ensure the safety of the visiting president, dignitaries, and members of the public.
Buckingham Palace earlier confirmed that King Charles III and Queen Camilla will host President Tinubu and Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, during the state visit scheduled to take place at Windsor Castle from March 18 to 19. The visit will be the first official state visit hosted by the British monarch since his accession to the throne.
Police said the security arrangement will involve both visible and covert measures throughout the event. Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of Thames Valley Police’s Joint Operations Unit stated that the temporary airspace restriction is part of a broader security plan designed to protect the high-profile occasion.
Hall explained that although there is a permanent airspace restriction around Windsor Castle throughout the year, additional controls will be introduced on March 18. The expanded restriction will run from 7:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. in collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority.
He warned that anyone who breaches the restrictions—including operators of drones, private aircraft, or other airborne devices—without proper authorisation will be committing a criminal offence under the UK’s Air Navigation Order and could be arrested.
To enforce the measures, police said they will work closely with the National Air Traffic Services to monitor the restricted airspace and respond to potential violations.
In addition to the airspace controls, a large number of security personnel will be deployed across Windsor. The operation will include armed police units, search teams, mounted officers, and roads policing units. Community policing officers and Project Servator teams will also interact with residents and visitors as part of the security effort.
Authorities noted that several roads in and around Windsor will be closed temporarily, while parking restrictions will take effect starting from March 17. Residents and visitors have been advised to plan their journeys in advance to avoid disruptions.
Police also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through the emergency numbers if necessary, stressing that the enforcement of the security measures during the visit will be strict.
