King Charles and other members of the royal family welcomed Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Britain. The royal family members made changes in the traditional State Visit protocols. This is because of the Islamic holy month. The royal family went vegetarian for them. Keep scrolling to get more insights.
King Charles Makes Historic Changes For Ramadan!
King Charles and Queen Camilla hosted Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at Windsor Castle. They went vegetarian to honour President Tinubu’s faith. The Royal household made adjustments to long-standing traditions and protocols. Meanwhile, the visit marks the first time since 1928, during the reign of King George V, that a Muslim head of state has undertaken a state visit to Britain during the Islamic month.
The President and First Lady spent Wednesday night at Windsor Castle following the evening banquet. Their farewell took place this morning. Meanwhile, the King said during the banquet that they were grateful to them for travelling this holy month. He added that it is not a small sacrifice.
Meanwhile, several changes took place for their state visit. Canapés were served before the formal dinner so that the Muslim guests could break their fast. Furthermore, they replaced the traditional formal lunch with a private meeting between the King and President Tinubu. The royals also arranged for a prayer room. The customary cocktail also remained as an alcohol free drink, Crimson Bloom. It was inspired by Nigeria’s popular Chapman cocktail, which features zobo made from dried hibiscus leaves, English rose soda, ginger syrup and lemon.
King Charles Gave A Speech!
Meanwhile, King Charles also addressed the complex history between the two Nations. He added that history should serve as a lesson in how they go forward together in building a future. King Charles described the relationship between Britain and Nigeria as a partnership and a deep spiritual connection.
He used Nigerian proverbs in his speech. He concluded it with the phrase, Naija No dey Carry Last which means Nigerians never come last. Furthermore, King Charles also wished Eid Mubarak to millions of Muslims. Meanwhile, Prince William, Kate Middleton, and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester were also present.
Kate Middleton wore a green gown reflecting the dominant colour of Nigeria’s flag. She paired it with a tiara and earrings belonging to Queen Elizabeth II. Meanwhile, Queen Camilla wore a cream embroidered dress with a sapphire and diamond tiara, matching earrings and a diamond serpent necklace. Elsewhere, there were 160 guests in St. George’s Hall, including Christine Ohuruogu, Maro Itoje, Tiwa Savage, Sir Ben Okri and Yinka Shonibare. Thus, King Charles and other royal family members gave a warm welcome to Tinubu. Keep following Soap Opera Daily for more Royal updates.