Britain’s monarch, King Charles III, hosted Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, to a grand state banquet at Windsor Castle on Wednesday evening, in a ceremony notable for its rare adaptation to Islamic traditions during Ramadan.
The event marked one of the first instances in nearly a century where a Muslim leader was hosted for a state visit during the fasting period. In response, the Royal Household introduced several significant changes to accommodate religious observances.
Held at St George’s Hall within the castle, the banquet featured thoughtful adjustments, including the provision of canapés before the main dinner for guests who had been fasting and missed iftar. A dedicated prayer space was also arranged to allow Muslim attendees observe evening prayers.
In a further departure from royal custom, the banquet menu and drinks were tailored to reflect both Nigerian culture and Ramadan sensitivities. A non-alcoholic mocktail, inspired by Nigeria’s popular zobo drink, was specially created for the occasion. The beverage, described as a blend of hibiscus, ginger, lemon, and English rose soda, replaced the traditional alcoholic cocktail usually served at such events.
President Tinubu also made his official toast using orange juice instead of alcohol, aligning with Islamic practices.
The carefully curated menu combined British and Nigerian influences, featuring a lighter, fish-based main course instead of the traditional meat-heavy option. Guests were served dishes such as fillet of turbot with lobster mousse, alongside vegetarian starters and a fruit-based dessert.
Beyond the banquet, the visit also highlighted cultural exchange between both nations. President Tinubu presented the King with an Eyo statuette, symbolising Lagos’ rich heritage, while King Charles gifted him a handcrafted decorative plate produced through his arts foundation.
The First Lady exchanged gifts with Queen Camilla, further underscoring the diplomatic warmth of the visit.
The state visit—the first by a Nigerian leader in decades—continues with scheduled meetings between President Tinubu and Keir Starmer, alongside engagements with the Nigerian diaspora.
Meanwhile, the First Lady is expected to deliver a sermon at Lambeth Palace, headquarters of the Archbishop of Canterbury, as part of her activities in the UK.
The banquet has been widely described as a powerful display of cultural sensitivity and diplomacy, blending royal tradition with respect for faith and diversity.
