By Peter Omopo
Authorities in the United Kingdom have announced temporary road closures and airspace restrictions in Windsor ahead of the state visit of Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, scheduled for next week.
President Tinubu is expected to begin the official visit alongside Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, on March 18 with a reception hosted by Britain’s monarch, King Charles III, at Windsor Castle.
In a statement posted on its website, Thames Valley Police said it is working with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household and other security partners to coordinate safety measures for the high-profile visit.
The police said permanent airspace restrictions over Windsor Castle would be extended on March 18, covering the period from 7 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.
Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of the police Joint Operations Unit said the flight restrictions form part of a comprehensive security operation planned for the visit.
Hall explained that the police had extensive experience policing royal events in Windsor and had carried out significant planning and preparations for the state visit.
He warned that any violation of the airspace restrictions would be treated as a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order and could result in arrest.
The police said the security operation would include the deployment of officers with specialist capabilities, including search teams, mounted units, road policing officers and armed personnel.
According to Hall, neighbourhood policing teams and Project Servator resources would also be deployed to engage with the public during the visit.
Authorities added that security arrangements would also involve the use of an extensive closed-circuit television network and hostile vehicle mitigation barriers, alongside other undisclosed safety measures.
Hall urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity by contacting the police through the 101 line or speaking with officers on duty, while emergencies should be reported via 999.
Road closures and parking restrictions are expected to take effect from March 17, with temporary disruptions anticipated on roads in and around Windsor during the visit.
The police added that the enforcement of flight restrictions would be carried out in collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority and National Air Traffic Services.
