President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Wednesday, said Nigeria remains hopeful and confident despite prevailing insecurity challenges, even as he called for stronger collaboration with the United Kingdom to tackle terrorism in the Sahel region.
Speaking at a state banquet hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle, the President warned that insecurity in the Sahel poses a serious threat to regional stability.
“Our West African region faces complex terrorism challenges with roots in the Sahel,” he said.
Tinubu stressed that Nigeria bears a huge responsibility in safeguarding the region, adding that partnership with the UK remains critical in addressing the threat.
“In confronting these threats, partnership with the United Kingdom remains essential and I look forward to my meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer tomorrow,” he added.
He, however, expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, noting that the country’s youthful population and entrepreneurial drive remain key strengths.
“Despite these challenges, Nigeria approaches the future with hope and confidence,” Tinubu said.
The President, who addressed members of the British Royal Family including Queen Camilla and Prince William, described the event as historic, being the first time a Nigerian leader would speak at the venue. He reaffirmed the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and the UK, anchored on shared history, democratic values, and mutual interests.
“It is an honour to stand before the Royal Family to reaffirm the enduring bonds of friendship, history, and shared purpose,” he said.
Tinubu also cited the Magna Carta and English common law as examples of how Britain shaped Nigeria’s institutional and democratic growth. In terms of interpersonal relationships, he highlighted the contributions made by Nigerians in the UK, especially in the realms of sports and health, where many work for the National Health Service.
Recalling his own experience during the military regime, he went on to thank the UK for its support throughout Nigeria’s pro-democracy campaign.
Tinubu’s concerns are a reflection of terrorist assaults in Nigeria that have increased recently, especially in the Northeast.
Recently, a horrific bombing in Borno State by suspected militants killed several civilians and injured numerous more, underscoring the ongoing threat presented by extremist organizations in the area. The incident, which is thought to be connected to Islamic State West Africa Province and Boko Haram factions, highlights mounting worries about resurgent violence in spite of years of military operations.
At around 7:02 p.m. on Monday, three suicide bombers detonated explosives at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital entrance, the Post Office Flyover location, and the Maiduguri Monday Market. The coordinated attacks resulted in 23 fatalities and 108 injuries of various degrees, according to the Borno State Police Command.
President Tinubu ordered security leaders to move to Maiduguri on Tuesday in order to oversee the security situation after the tragedy. Additionally, the President characterized the attacks as “desperate and frantic attempts” by terrorist cells under ongoing pressure from Nigerian security forces.
