Frederick Nwabufo, the Senior Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria on Public Engagement, highlighted that Nigeria is now receiving significant attention from global leaders and investors, coinciding with the upcoming state visit of President Bola Tinubu to the United Kingdom. This visit is notable as it marks the first time in 37 years that a Nigerian leader has been invited to conduct a state visit to the UK, a privilege last extended to military President Ibrahim Babangida in 1989, during which he was hosted by the late Queen Elizabeth II.

The context of this visit is underscored by the role of soft-power diplomacy, as described by the BBC, suggesting that such visits utilize the royal hospitality of the UK to enhance relationships with key international partners. The forthcoming meeting is expected to focus on fostering ties between Nigeria and the UK, and the anticipation surrounding it underscores Nigeria's growing diplomatic significance on the global stage. The royal communications team has confirmed that this invitation comes from King Charles III, further emphasizing its importance.

Additionally, President Tinubu's wife, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, will accompany him on this diplomatic journey, which suggests a comprehensive approach to the visit and highlights the personal investment by Nigeria's leadership in enhancing international relations. However, details concerning the agenda for the state visit, scheduled for March 18, are still pending, indicating that strategic discussions between the two nations are expected to take place, although the specific topics remain undisclosed at this time.