By Ayo Kehinde
Authorities in the United Kingdom have announced temporary airspace restrictions and enhanced security arrangements around Windsor ahead of the state visit of Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu.
The Nigerian leader and the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, are scheduled to visit the UK from March 18 to March 19 at the invitation of Charles III, with the visit to take place at Windsor Castle.
According to Thames Valley Police, extensive planning is underway to ensure the safety of dignitaries, residents and visitors during the high-profile engagement. The security operation will include temporary airspace restrictions over Windsor from 7:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on March 18.
Police officials explained that Windsor Castle already operates under a permanent restricted airspace zone, but the coverage will be expanded on the day of the visit as part of enhanced security arrangements coordinated with the UK Civil Aviation Authority and the country’s air traffic services.
Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of the joint operations unit said the restrictions form part of a “robust security operation”, noting that law enforcement agencies have significant experience policing royal events in Windsor.
The restrictions mean that any aircraft entering the designated zone without authorisation could be committing an offence under the Air Navigation Order and may face prosecution, authorities warned.
Beyond the airspace curbs, security preparations will include increased police patrols, deployment of mounted units, armed officers, road policing teams and search units across the town. Authorities will also deploy extensive CCTV monitoring and protective barriers to prevent vehicle-related threats.
Several roads and parking areas in Windsor are expected to experience temporary closures beginning March 17, to allow preparations for the visit and ceremonial events, while some footpaths may also be briefly restricted during the official procession.
Despite the tight security arrangements, officials said businesses, shops, cafés and restaurants in Windsor and nearby Eton would remain open throughout the visit.
