By Ghazali Ibrahim
United Kingdom have announced plans to close several roads and impose temporary airspace restrictions ahead of the upcoming state visit of Nigeria’s president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The restrictions will be enforced in Windsor, where Tinubu and his wife, Oluremi Tinubu, are expected to visit on March 18–19 at the invitation of King Charles III. The Nigerian leader will be hosted at Windsor Castle.
According to Thames Valley Police, the security measures include the temporary expansion of the airspace exclusion zone around Windsor Castle from 7:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on March 18, coordinated with the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
Authorities warned that any aircraft breaching the restricted airspace would be committing a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order.
Police also announced that multiple road closures and parking restrictions will take effect across Windsor starting from March 17, with additional traffic control expected during ceremonial processions linked to the state visit.
Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of Thames Valley Police said the airspace limits are only one part of a wider security plan. He noted that the force has extensive experience handling royal events and that significant preparation has gone into ensuring the visit proceeds safely.
Large numbers of officers, including armed units, mounted police, search teams and traffic patrols, are expected to be deployed across the town as part of the security operation.
State visits represent the highest level of diplomatic engagement hosted by the British monarchy, and officials say the measures are aimed at ensuring the safety of dignitaries, residents and visitors during the high-profile event.
