King Charles III has described Nigerian jollof rice as “the best” while praising the profound impact of the Nigerian diaspora on life in the United Kingdom, noting that the country is “blessed” by their presence.

Speaking at a grand state banquet at Windsor Castle on Wednesday evening, the monarch paid glowing tribute to the millions of Nigerians who have made Britain their home.

The event, held in honour of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, marked the first time in 37 years that a Nigerian leader has been accorded the full honours of a UK state visit.

Addressing a distinguished audience of diplomats, political leaders, veterans, and creative industry figures, King Charles highlighted the indispensable role Nigerians play across all sectors of British society.

“We in the United Kingdom are blessed that so many people of Nigerian heritage, having chosen Britain as their home, are now at the heart of British life,” the King said.

He noted that he has personally witnessed their contributions across schools, businesses, the National Health Service (NHS), and universities.

“I have met so many of these quiet heroes in our schools, businesses, National Health Service, and universities, including countless young people who have flourished through the work of my King’s Trust over the last 50 years,” he added.

The monarch also shared a lighthearted story about a recent gathering he hosted at St James’s Palace for members of the British-Nigerian community.

“Only last week, I was delighted to host a rather lively group of them to a jollof and tea party at St James’s Palace. I was firmly assured that the jollof was only the best — Nigerian, of course,” he said.

The March 2026 state visit by President Tinubu to the UK—the first in nearly four decades—signals a major diplomatic reset aimed at deepening trade, investment, and security ties between both countries.

The visit is expected to support Nigeria’s economic reforms, boost British investment in infrastructure, and strengthen bilateral partnerships.

Discussions are also expected to focus on enhancing security cooperation and supporting Nigeria’s police reform efforts.

Additionally, the visit will prioritise attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) into Africa’s largest economy—particularly in infrastructure, energy, and technology—while building on the existing £8 billion annual trade relationship. It is also expected to address visa frameworks and improve recognition of the Nigerian community in the UK, a key source of remittances.