King Charles III has praised the profound influence of Nigerian culture on life in the United Kingdom, highlighting contributions ranging from Afrobeats to Nollywood. He made the remarks during a state banquet held in honour of President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, part of their ongoing state visit.
Addressing the gathering, the King said, “From Afrobeats filling our concert halls and Nollywood captivating our screens, to stars competing in our Premier League and serving in our highest courts, so much of Britain’s culture is, in truth, profoundly enriched by Nigeria.”
He also emphasised the role of Nigerians living in the U.K., noting, “Whether they are Nigerians who have chosen Britain as their adopted home to invest, trade, or study, or Britons who cherish their personal connection to Nigeria, they all represent a living bridge of over half a million people connecting our nations… helping to make our cultures richer, our shared security stronger, and our economies more prosperous.”
Adding a light-hearted moment, King Charles recalled hosting a ‘Jollof and Tea’ Party at St. James’s Palace, celebrating Nigeria’s culinary and cultural impact. He joked, “The Jollof rice served was only the best: Nigerian, of course… or perhaps Ghanaian or Senegalese. Diplomatically, I cannot remember!”
Reflecting on his previous visits, the King remarked that Nigeria has undergone remarkable transformation over the years, underscoring the enduring and dynamic ties between the two countries.
