King Charles III has diplomatically sidestepped the long-running Jollof rice debate during a State Banquet speech for Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at Windsor Castle, playfully refusing to settle the question of which country produces the best version of the iconic West African dish
The monarch shared a light-hearted anecdote about hosting a “rather lively group” of young Nigerians for a “Jollof and Tea” party at St. James’s Palace last week, joking about the friendly rivalry between West African nations over the popular dish .
“I was firmly assured that the Jollof was only the best: Nigerian, of course… or perhaps Ghanaian or Senegalese. Diplomatically, I cannot remember!” King Charles said, drawing laughter from guests .
Jollof rice, typically made with rice, tomatoes, spices, and a variety of meats or vegetables, has become a symbol of national pride across several West African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana and Senegal, with each nation claiming to produce the definitive version .
By refusing to take sides, the King maintained diplomatic neutrality, avoiding favouring one nation over another during the high-profile State Visit .
The comment formed part of a broader speech celebrating the cultural ties between the United Kingdom and Nigeria, with the monarch praising the influence of Nigerian music, film and cuisine on British life .
He noted how Afrobeats has filled concert halls and how Nollywood has captivated audiences, describing Nigeria as a “cultural force” with global reach .
The King also highlighted the contributions of Nigerians living in the United Kingdom, describing them as central to the country’s growth and innovation .
“We in the United Kingdom are blessed that so many people of Nigerian heritage, having chosen Britain as their home, are now at the heart of British life,” he said .
The king noted that Nigerians were excelling “at the highest level of business, technology, academia, law, science, sports, literature, and the arts” .
Reflecting on his interactions with the Nigerian community, the King said he had encountered many “quiet heroes” contributing significantly in schools, businesses, the National Health Service, and universities .
“I have met so many of these quiet heroes in our schools, businesses, National Health Service, and universities, including countless young people who have flourished through the work of my King’s Trust over the last 50 years,” he said .
The State Banquet brought together senior royals, politicians and leading figures from both countries, marking a key moment in President Tinubu’s visit to the UK .
Catherine, The Princess of Wales, was seated beside the Nigerian President during the banquet, while Prince William sat next to the Nigerian ambassador .
The banquet is part of activities lined up for Tinubu’s two-day state visit to the United Kingdom, which included a ceremonial welcome with full military honours and a carriage procession to Windsor Castle .
While the King’s remarks on Jollof rice were delivered in jest, they underscored the warmth of the occasion and the shared cultural connections that underpin the relationship between the two nations .
His refusal to “crown” a winner ensured the debate remains firmly unresolved—much to the amusement of those in attendance .
