Authorities in the United Kingdom have announced temporary road closures and extended airspace restrictions ahead of the state visit of Bola Tinubu, President of Nigeria, scheduled for next week.
The visit, hosted by King Charles III, will begin on Wednesday, March 18, when Tinubu and his wife, Oluremi Tinubu, are expected to attend a reception at Windsor Castle in Windsor.
In preparation for the high-profile event, the Thames Valley Police said it is coordinating a major security operation alongside the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household, and other security agencies.
Extended airspace restrictions
Police confirmed that existing airspace restrictions over Windsor Castle will be extended on March 18, covering the period from 7:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.
The measure forms part of a wider security strategy aimed at ensuring the safety of the visiting Nigerian delegation and members of the British royal family.
Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of the Thames Valley Police Joint Operations Unit said authorities have undertaken extensive planning ahead of the visit.
“The air restrictions are just one part of our robust security operation for the state visit of Nigerian President Tinubu next week, with many measures you will see and others you will not,” Hall said.
He warned that violating the airspace restrictions would be treated as a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order and could lead to arrest.
Heavy security presence expected
Security officials said multiple specialist units will be deployed across Windsor during the visit, including armed police officers, search teams, mounted police, and road-policing units.
Neighbourhood policing teams and officers under the Project Servator initiative will also be stationed in the area to engage with the public and enhance security awareness.
Authorities will additionally deploy extensive CCTV monitoring, hostile vehicle mitigation barriers, and other undisclosed protective measures.
Road closures and traffic disruption
Temporary road closures and parking restrictions will take effect from Tuesday, March 17, with motorists advised to expect disruptions in and around Windsor during the visit.
Police urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities.
“The public plays a critical role in supporting our operation. If you see something that doesn’t look right, report it by calling 101 or speaking to an officer,” Hall said.
The airspace restrictions will be enforced with the support of the Civil Aviation Authority and National Air Traffic Services, while individuals seeking approval for drone operations during the period have been asked to apply through Thames Valley Police.
