King Charles Nigeria speech includes “Naija no dey carry last” as he praises Nigeria’s culture, economy and ties with the UK during Tinubu’s visit
King Charles III of the United Kingdom delivered a warmly symbolic address on Wednesday during a state banquet in honour of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, praising Nigeria’s cultural influence and growing global relevance.
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The monarch, speaking at Windsor Castle, highlighted the deepening ties between both nations, noting the presence and contributions of Nigerians across the United Kingdom in sectors such as business, law, science, sport and the arts.
King Charles described Nigeria as a rapidly transforming nation, stating that “Nigeria hasn’t merely changed. It has arrived,” while emphasising the strength of shared cultural and economic ties between both countries.
He also referenced the widespread influence of Nigerian culture in the UK, from Afrobeats and Nollywood to the prominence of Nigerian professionals in public service and academia.
The King lightened the atmosphere with cultural references, including a playful remark inspired by Nigerian slang, saying, “Naija no dey carry last,” during a toast to Nigeria and its people.
He further reflected on his personal engagement with West African culture, mentioning a “Jollof and Tea” gathering held at St James’s Palace, where discussions about Nigerian, Ghanaian and Senegalese cuisine sparked light-hearted diplomatic debate.
Throughout his address, King Charles also drew on proverbs from Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo traditions, underscoring values of unity, cooperation and shared progress between both nations.
He described the UK–Nigeria relationship as a partnership of equals, adding that it continues to bring mutual benefits and strengthens global cooperation.
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The visit marks another milestone in diplomatic relations between both countries as Nigeria continues to assert its cultural and economic influence on the world stage.
