FG Dismisses Tinubu Policy Criticisms as Mischief, Defends UK State Visit Significance

The Federal Government has attributed much of the domestic criticism directed at President Bola Tinubu’s economic and governance policies to either insufficient understanding or deliberate malice, while emphasising the strategic importance of his forthcoming state visit to the United Kingdom.

The remarks come ahead of the president’s arrival in London this week for engagements with King Charles III and senior British officials. Minister of Information and Orientation Mohammed Idris, who is leading preparatory engagements in the UK, made the comments during an interaction with international media on March 15, 2026.

According to reports by Channels Television and The PUNCH, Idris described the criticisms as partly arising from “a lack of adequate knowledge and some out of sheer mischief.” He framed the remarks as part of a broader effort to provide clarity on administration initiatives over the past three years.

Idris highlighted the enduring bilateral relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, describing it as rooted in “deep diplomatic, economic, cultural, and democratic ties.” He noted that the partnership has spanned trade, education, security cooperation, cultural exchanges, and shared values for decades.

The state visit, he said, offers a platform to reinforce collaboration in key areas including trade and investment, security, climate action, education, and technological innovation. The minister positioned Nigeria as an increasingly vital democratic and economic partner in Africa and a responsible actor on the global stage.

President Tinubu, accompanied by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, is scheduled to arrive in the UK on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, with formal state visit activities commencing on Thursday, March 19. He will be hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle in what marks the first Nigerian state visit to the UK in 37 years.

The itinerary combines ceremonial elements, including a royal welcome, with substantive discussions on economic partnerships, security, and mutual interests. Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity Temitope Ajayi described the visit as an opportunity to “showcase the enduring relationship between Nigeria and the UK.”

Security arrangements have been heightened in Windsor, with airspace restrictions activated over the castle. Deployments include armed officers, search teams, and mounted police supported by an extensive CCTV network.

The visit occurs against a backdrop of domestic debates over Tinubu’s reforms, including fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange liberalisation. While supporters credit these measures with attracting investment, critics have pointed to rising living costs and inflation.

Idris’s characterisation of some opposition as mischievous aligns with government efforts to counter narratives abroad and build international understanding of Nigeria’s reform trajectory.