King Charles III referenced Nigeria’s jollof rice while hosting President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu at Windsor Castle on Wednesday.
During his speech, the king recalled a recent event at St James’s Palace where he hosted members of the Nigerian diaspora at what he described as a “Jollof and Tea” party.
He said he was told the jollof served at the event was the best.
“I was firmly assured that the jollof was only the best: Nigerian, of course or perhaps Ghanaian or Senegalese. Diplomatically I cannot remember,” he said.
Among those at the event were Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar, chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission Abike Dabiri-Erewa and London-based content creator Bemi Orojuogun, known as Bus Aunty.
The remark drew attention to the debate over which country makes the best jollof rice.
King Charles also spoke about Nigerians living in the United Kingdom and their presence across sectors.
He said people of Nigerian origin are active in business, education and health.
He added that ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom continue to grow through trade and investment.
The king said both countries are linked through people, culture and economic activities and called for continued cooperation.
He ended his speech by wishing Muslims well ahead of Eid and raised a toast to Nigeria.
