HRH Prince Edward, The Duke of Edinburgh, has begun a week‑long visit to Nigeria that combines high‑level diplomacy with a major international youth gathering. The trip marks the 70th anniversary of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, a global program designed to empower young people through leadership, service, and resilience.
Presidential Reception in Abuja
On November 17, 2025, Prince Edward was formally received by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. He was accompanied by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Sir Richard Montgomery, and Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun Sahara Reporters. Photographs released by the State House show the Duke and President Tinubu in discussion, underscoring the diplomatic significance of the visit.
The meeting comes against the backdrop of deepening UK–Nigeria relations, with bilateral trade currently valued at £7.2 billion, according to the British High Commissioner Sahara Reporters.
Global Youth Forum in Lagos
Beyond diplomacy, the Duke’s itinerary centers on Lagos, where nearly 200 young participants from more than 50 countries are gathering under the Award’s banner The News International Arise News. The program includes:
- A three‑day youth leadership programme designed to expand access to the Award worldwide.
- The International Award’s triennial forum, bringing together policymakers, educators, and youth leaders from across the globe.
- Celebrations of Nigeria’s remarkable 37% surge in Award participation over the past year, reflecting booming interest across West Africa The News International.
The Award Foundation also announced that the program has surpassed £1 billion in social value globally, highlighting its impact on communities and economies intaward.org Vanguard News.
Cultural and Strategic Significance
Prince Edward’s visit underscores Nigeria’s role as a regional hub for youth development and cultural exchange. By combining high‑level meetings in Abuja with grassroots youth engagement in Lagos, the Duke is reinforcing the Award’s mission while strengthening UK–Nigeria ties.
The trip also reflects the UK’s broader strategy of leveraging cultural diplomacy to deepen partnerships in Africa, particularly in education, innovation, and youth empowerment.
Outlook
The Duke’s engagements in Nigeria run through November 23, 2025, with further events expected to spotlight the Award’s expansion and Nigeria’s vibrant youth culture. As the program nears its 70th anniversary, the Nigeria visit positions the country at the heart of a global movement dedicated to preparing the next generation of leaders.
HRH Prince Edward, The Duke of Edinburgh and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Picture by History & Lives of the British Royals
