The United Kingdom has announced strict security measures, including temporary airspace restrictions, in anticipation of President Bola Tinubu's state visit next week.
Thames Valley Police confirmed that the increased security measures are part of a co-ordinated operation involving the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household and other security partners.
These measures are aimed at protecting dignitaries, visitors and the general public during the high-profile visit.
Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of Thames Valley Police's joint operations unit said on Wednesday the airspace restrictions were just one element of the security strategy.
“The air interdiction is just one part of our robust security campaign ahead of Nigerian President Tinubu's state visit next week, many of the measures you'll see and some you won't,” Hall said.
He said Thames Valley Police has extensive experience managing royal events at Windsor and have planned carefully for the upcoming visit.
“We will ensure that everyone attending the state visit, including dignitaries and visitors as well as the public, is kept safe while enjoying the historic occasion,” Hall said.
According to him, Windsor Castle already has permanent airspace restrictions throughout the year, but these will be extended on Wednesday, March 18, to cover the period of Tinubu's visit.
“The temporary restriction will run from 7:00 am to 11:59 pm and will be implemented in coordination with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), he said.
Hall warned that breaches would be considered criminal offenses under the Air Navigation Order.
“We will take a tough stance in enforcing the restrictions; anyone who violates them will be committing a criminal offense and may be arrested,” he said.
Hall further said that the security operation will also see a significant police presence on the ground, including search parties, mounted sections, road policing units and armed officers.
“Officers from neighborhood policing teams and Project Servator, who specialize in counter-terrorism and public reassurance, will engage directly with the public,” he said. It was said.
Officials confirmed that additional protective measures will include Windsor's extensive CCTV network, hostile vehicle mitigation barriers and other security infrastructure to ensure travel safely.
Police urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
Hall said, “The public play a vital role in supporting us, so we encourage them to report anything unusual by calling 101 or speaking to one of our officers. If there is an immediate danger or emergency, call 999.”
