Authorities in the United Kingdom will impose strict airspace restrictions and deploy armed police officers in Windsor ahead of the arrival of Bola Tinubu for a state visit hosted by King Charles III.
Tinubu is expected to begin the visit on Wednesday, March 18, accompanied by his wife, Oluremi Tinubu. The visit will start with 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 a safe and successful event.
The police said existing airspace restrictions over Windsor Castle, which are permanently in place throughout the year, would be extended on Wednesday from 7:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.
Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of the Joint Operations Unit explained that the flight restrictions form part of a broader security arrangement 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 added that the police have extensive experience managing security during royal events in Windsor and that significant planning had gone into the upcoming visit.
According to him, anyone who violates the restrictions would be committing a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order and could face arrest.
Authorities will deploy officers with specialist capabilities across Windsor, including search teams, the Mounted Section, road policing units, and armed officers. Neighbourhood policing teams and Project Servator personnel will also be present to interact with members of the public.
Security measures will also include the use of Windsor’s extensive closed-circuit television network and hostile vehicle mitigation barriers. Additional security arrangements, which have not been publicly disclosed, will also be implemented.
Hall urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police.
Members of the public were advised to call 101 or speak to nearby officers if they notice anything unusual, while emergencies should be reported through 999.
Meanwhile, road closures and parking restrictions will begin on Tuesday, March 17. Authorities warned that motorists may experience temporary disruptions in and around Windsor during the visit.
Thames Valley Police said the enforcement of the airspace restrictions would be supported by the Civil Aviation Authority and National Air Traffic Services.
Individuals with legitimate reasons to fly drones during the period were advised to submit requests through the police’s designated airspace approval channel.
