UK Tightens Security in Windsor Ahead of Tinubu’s State Visit

Authorities in the United Kingdom have announced heightened security measures in Windsor ahead of the planned state visit of Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to the country.

President Tinubu is expected to arrive on Wednesday, March 18, alongside the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, for an official reception hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle.

As part of preparations for the visit, British authorities will implement temporary road closures and expand airspace restrictions around Windsor.

In a statement on Wednesday, Thames Valley Police said it is working with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household and other security agencies to ensure adequate safety arrangements during the high-profile event.

According to the police, the existing airspace restrictions over Windsor Castle will be extended on March 18 from 7:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.

Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of the Joint Operations Unit explained that the move forms part of a wider security strategy for the visit.

He noted that while some of the security measures will be visible to the public, others will operate behind the scenes to ensure the event proceeds safely.

Hall also warned that any violation of the airspace restriction would be treated as a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order and could lead to arrest.

He added that specialised units—including search teams, mounted officers, road policing teams and armed personnel—will be deployed across Windsor, working alongside neighbourhood policing officers and Project Servator operatives.

Authorities will also utilise Windsor’s extensive CCTV network, vehicle mitigation barriers and other security measures to safeguard the area during the visit.

Residents and visitors have been urged to remain alert and report suspicious activities to the police by calling 101 or approaching officers on duty, while emergencies should be reported through 999.

Meanwhile, road closures and parking restrictions are expected to begin on Tuesday, March 17, which may cause temporary traffic disruptions in and around Windsor.

Thames Valley Police said enforcement of the flight restrictions will be carried out in collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority and National Air Traffic Services. Individuals with legitimate reasons to operate drones during the restricted period have been advised to seek permission from the police through the designated channel.