British authorities have announced temporary airspace restrictions and tightened security measures in Windsor ahead of the state visit of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the United Kingdom next week at the invitation of King Charles III.
Tinubu is expected to arrive with the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, on Wednesday, March 18, for a reception at Windsor Castle.
In a statement published on its website, Thames Valley Police said it is working closely with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household and other security partners to ensure the visit proceeds safely.
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. as part of enhanced security arrangements.
Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of the Joint Operations Unit said the airspace control forms part of a broader security operation for the high-profile 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 noted that police have extensive experience managing security during major royal events in Windsor and that significant planning has gone into the operation.
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Hall also warned that authorities will strictly enforce the restrictions, adding that any violation could result in arrest under the Air Navigation Order.
“We will be taking a strong stance in enforcing the restrictions; anyone who breaches them will be committing a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order and could be arrested,” he said.
The security operation will include the deployment of specialist police units such as search teams, mounted officers, roads policing personnel and armed units. Neighbourhood policing teams and Project Servator officers will also be present to engage with the public.
Authorities added that a comprehensive closed-circuit television network, hostile vehicle mitigation barriers and other undisclosed security measures will be deployed across Windsor during the visit.
Residents and visitors have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police by calling 101 or speaking to officers on duty. In emergencies, the public has been advised to dial 999.
Police also confirmed that road closures and parking restrictions will begin on Tuesday, March 17, with potential temporary disruptions expected in and around Windsor throughout the visit.
Thames Valley Police said it will work alongside the Civil Aviation Authority and National Air Traffic Services to enforce the temporary flight restrictions during the state visit.
