The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has congratulated African countries and the international community following the landmark adoption of a United Nations resolution declaring the transatlantic slave trade and the enslavement of Africans as among the gravest crimes against humanity.
The resolution was adopted on March 25, 2026, during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, coinciding with the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. It marks the first time the global body has formally recognized the trafficking and racialized enslavement of Africans at such a level.
In a statement, Ambassador Yu described the resolution as a historic milestone that affirms justice, human dignity and global efforts to confront the legacy of slavery and colonialism.
He noted that the move aligns with the theme of the 38th African Union Summit, which focuses on justice and reparations for Africans and people of African descent.
According to him, the adoption of the resolution reflects sustained efforts by African nations to advance reparatory justice on the global stage and represents a significant victory in the fight against racial discrimination and the enduring effects of colonial exploitation.
“Justice may be delayed, but it will never be absent,” the ambassador stated, while commending African countries and developing nations for their collective role in achieving the outcome.
China, alongside over 120 countries, voted in favour of the resolution, reaffirming its position on addressing historical injustices and supporting the rights of African nations and people of African descent.
Yu described the transatlantic slave trade as one of the darkest periods in human history, noting that millions of Africans were subjected to inhumane treatment, with consequences that continue to impact the continent’s development and global inequalities.
He said the resolution provides both moral and legal grounding for ongoing discussions around reparations, the return of cultural artefacts, and healing from historical trauma, while also strengthening efforts to combat modern forms of racial discrimination.
Highlighting China’s longstanding relationship with Africa, the ambassador noted that 2026 marks 70 years of diplomatic engagement between China and the continent, characterised by mutual respect, cooperation and development-focused partnerships.
He reiterated China’s commitment to supporting Africa’s growth through initiatives such as zero-tariff access for African exports and development cooperation aimed at improving livelihoods and strengthening economic capacity.
Speaking on bilateral relations, Yu emphasized the deepening ties between China and Nigeria, noting that both nations share similar historical experiences of foreign domination and remain committed to sovereignty, dignity and development.
He said ongoing collaboration between the two countries continues to yield tangible benefits, with increased political trust, economic cooperation and people-to-people exchanges.
The ambassador also cautioned against rising unilateralism and power politics in global affairs, urging the international community to uphold multilateralism, fairness and mutual respect in addressing global challenges.
He reaffirmed China’s commitment to working closely with Nigeria and other African nations to promote equitable global governance, defend national sovereignty and advance shared development goals.
The adoption of the resolution, he added, represents a major step toward achieving historical justice and strengthening solidarity between Africa and the international community.
Yu pledged China’s continued support for Africa’s voice in global affairs, as well as efforts to promote equality, dignity and sustainable development worldwide.
