Kate’s secret message to Camilla, Charles’ kind gesture and ‘diplomatic’ jokes about jollof rice: All the moments you missed from the first Nigerian state visit in 37 years

The first Nigerian state visit in three decades began yesterday with a series of touching exchanges, including a private compliment from Kate to Camilla and Charles extending a hand to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the ceremony at Windsor.

At the heart of the event was the King’s state banquet, a glittering affair that included thoughtful adjustments for Muslim guests fasting during Ramadan. A dedicated prayer area and Iftar space were set aside, reflecting the monarch’s awareness of cultural traditions.

Wednesday’s festivities unveiled several poignant scenes, such as the King’s lighthearted remark on jollof rice and the Princess of Wales’s poised curtsy. William and Kate also shared a private moment, their laughter evident despite the formal setting.

William and Kate appeared to struggle with suppressing their smiles as they exchanged a shared joke, while Charles received a warm greeting from his stepmother. A lip-reader noted that Kate initiated a conversation with Camilla, praising her appearance with phrases like “Good morning, how are you?” and “you look beautiful!”

Camilla’s elegance was highlighted by her pink wool crepe dress from Fiona Clare and a Philip Treacy-designed pink beret. She wore the late Queen Elizabeth II’s Cartier flower clip brooches, drawing admiration from onlookers in Windsor.

During the ceremonial welcome at Windsor’s Quadrangle, royal observers noted an unexpected act: the King offering his hand to Mr. Tinubu as they walked together. Body language expert Inbaal Honigman suggested this gesture might reflect the President’s consideration for the King’s comfort, given the uneven terrain.

“The King glances downwards, as if steadying himself as he walks. It appears likely that the King found the gravel a little tricky to navigate, and President Tinubu offered his hand to assist him across,” Honigman explained.

“For the two leaders to hold hands is certainly unusual, as British men aren’t typically seen in such a gesture. In Nigerian culture, however, it is perfectly normal for men to walk closely together and even share a handshake,” she added.

The King’s address featured a memorable line: “Naija No Dey Carry Last” — a phrase resonating deeply with Nigerian heritage. The statement, delivered to applause, celebrates the nation’s resilience and drive for excellence.

“Naija No Dey Carry Last” — Nigerians Never Come Last.

Charles also highlighted Nigeria’s significance as the UK’s largest African export market since January. He praised the Nigerian diaspora, calling them a “living bridge of over half a million people who connect our nations… and help make our cultures richer, our shared security stronger and our economies more prosperous.”

In a moment of levity, the King touched on jollof rice, a staple dish in West Africa. The dish, made by cooking long-grain rice with tomatoes, chillis, spices, and sometimes meat or vegetables, varies across regions in its preparation.

Behind the opulence of the event, moments of genuine connection shone through, capturing the essence of British hospitality in its most authentic form.