Kate Middleton Dazzles in Emerald Green at State Banquet Honoring Nigerian President

The Princess of Wales captivated attendees at a state banquet held at Windsor Castle on March 18, 2026, in a stunning emerald green gown and a glittering tiara. The banquet honored Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu during their historic state visit to the United Kingdom.

A Nod to Nigeria’s Flag

Princess Catherine’s choice of an emerald green evening gown by Singaporean-French designer Andrew Gn was a deliberate tribute to the colors of the Nigerian flag . The gown, specially designed for the occasion, was paired with the iconic Lover’s Knot tiara, previously worn by Princess Diana, and diamond earrings that belonged to the late Queen Elizabeth II . She also wore the Order of Queen Elizabeth II and a blue sash of the Order of Queen Victoria with a silver star, completing the formal ensemble .

A Banquet During Ramadan

The state banquet took place in St George’s Hall at Windsor Castle and was attended by nine members of the royal family, including King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Prince Edward . The visit is particularly significant as it marks the first incoming state visit in nearly 100 years by a Muslim leader during the holy month of Ramadan .

In consideration of President Tinubu observing Ramadan, the traditional lunch with the King was omitted. Instead, arrangements were made for the president to privately break his fast before joining the Royal Family for the evening banquet . The First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, is a Christian and ordained Pentecostal pastor.

A Carefully Curated Menu

The multi-course dinner was specially prepared with Ramadan in mind. A reception with canapés was held before the official opening, a first for a modern royal banquet, to allow Muslim guests to replenish their energy after sunset . The menu did not include red meat, focusing instead on fish and vegetable dishes .

Guests enjoyed a starter of soft-boiled quail egg tartlet with watercress and kale, accompanied by a basil sabayon. The main course featured fillet of turbot with lobster mousse wrapped in spinach, served with beurre blanc sauce, sprouting broccoli with hollandaise sauce, fricassee of peas and broad beans, and Jersey Royal potatoes . Dessert was an iced currant souffle with red fruit coulis. A special non-alcoholic cocktail inspired by the Nigerian drink Zobo was also served alongside English sparkling wine .

Departure and Eid-al-Fitr

President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu are scheduled to depart the UK as Eid-al-Fitr, the Islamic holiday celebrating the end of Ramadan, begins on the evening of March 20, 2026 .