4 DECEMBER 2003
The Queen and Prince Philip looked to be thoroughly enjoying themselves during their first state visit to Nigeria since the country won independence in 1956. And the monarch laughed and joked with local dignitaries during a reception in Abuja to mark her arrival.

Her four-day visit marks the opening of a Commonwealth summit, which British Prime Minister Tony Blair and Foreign Secretary Jack Straw will also be attending.
Upon her arrival in the country, Her Majesty was greeted President Olesegun Obasanjo and his wife Stella. She was also presented with a string of Kola nuts, a traditional Nigerian symbol of greeting and respect, by a young girl. The nuts, which release a caffeine-like stimulant when chewed, may come in handy over the coming days, as she has a busy programme of activities.

The monarch commended President Obasanjo for his efforts to improve human rights and promote democracy in the populous nation. "We welcome your government's plans for much-needed political, economic and judicial reform, poverty alleviation and the fight against corruption," said the British monarch.

The Queen is also scheduled to open the summit and visit a remote village in the north of the county. Meanwhile, her husband, who has been mistakenly referred to as "King Philip" in the local press, will visit health and environmental projects in Lagos.