King Charles declares Nigerian jollof superior, insisting the country always comes out on top.

Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu was in attendance as Britain's King Charles III delivered remarks during a State Banquet held in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, Windsor, on March 18, 2026, marking the first day of a two-day State Visit to the United Kingdom.

n

King Charles III proclaimed Nigerian jollof rice as the best in Africa while hosting a state banquet in honor of President Bola Tinubu and his wife, Oluremi Tinubu, as part of the president's historic two-day visit, the first by a Nigerian leader in nearly four decades.

n

During his speech at the banquet, King Charles III shared his experience of meeting numerous individuals who have made significant contributions to British society, including many young people who have benefited from the work of his King's Trust over the last fifty years.

n

He recounted hosting a "Jollof and Tea" party at St. James's Palace the previous week, where he was assured that the jollof served was the best, with some claiming it was Nigerian, while others argued it was Ghanaian or Senegalese, though he jokingly said he could not remember.

n

King Charles III commended Nigerians living in the UK for their contributions across various sectors, describing them as "quiet heroes" who have made meaningful contributions to British society, particularly in business, technology, academia, law, science, sport, literature, and the arts.

n

The British monarch noted that the UK is fortunate to have many people of Nigerian heritage who have chosen Britain as their home and are now integral to British life, excelling in various fields at the highest levels.

n

He highlighted the significant impact of Nigerian culture in Britain, from Afrobeats concerts and Nollywood films to Nigerians excelling in the Premier League and the legal profession, stating that Britain's culture is profoundly enriched by Nigeria.

n

In a rare gesture, King Charles III greeted President Tinubu and the Nigerian delegation in Yoruba, saying "Ẹ káàbọ̀, ṣé dáadáa ni?", which translates to "Welcome, how are you?"

n

The monarch extended goodwill to Muslims in both countries, saying "I can only wish you and the millions of Muslims in our countries Eid Mubarak," and proposed a toast to the president and people of Nigeria, ending with the phrase "Naija no dey carry last."