In preparation for the visit of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, King Charles will host a state visit at Windsor Castle on March 18-19, 2024. This significant occasion has prompted Thames Valley Police to implement extensive security measures across Windsor, ensuring the safety of dignitaries and the public.
The security operation will include a temporary expansion of the airspace restriction over Windsor. The existing exclusion zone will be in effect on March 18 from 07:00 to 23:59 GMT. Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall, head of the joint operations unit at Thames Valley Police, emphasized the importance of these air restrictions, stating, “The air restrictions form only one part of a robust security operation. Many measures will be visible, others will not.” He warned that breaching these restrictions may lead to arrest under the Air Navigation Order.
In addition to airspace restrictions, officers with specialized capabilities will patrol the town. This includes armed units, mounted police, search teams, and roads policing units. Neighbourhood officers will conduct unpredictable patrols to deter potential criminal activity. The police will also deploy CCTV and hostile vehicle mitigation barriers to enhance safety during the event. Hall assured the public, “Significant planning has gone into this state visit. We will ensure the safety of dignitaries, spectators, and the public during this historic occasion.”
As part of the security preparations, several road closures and parking restrictions will begin on March 17. Certain footways and crossings in the town centre will be intermittently closed to facilitate a ceremonial procession. Residents and visitors are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities via the non-emergency number 101, or in emergencies, by calling 999.
The heightened security measures reflect the significance of the upcoming visit, which underscores the ongoing diplomatic relationship between the United Kingdom and Nigeria.
