China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has welcomed a landmark resolution by the United Nations General Assembly declaring the transatlantic slave trade the “gravest crime against humanity” for the first time.
The resolution, adopted on March 25, 2026, during the UN General Assembly’s 80th session, coincided with the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. It received overwhelming support from member states, reflecting growing global agreement on the need to address the lasting impact of slavery.
Dunhai described the decision as a major step toward historical justice and a significant victory for Africans and people of African descent. He commended African nations and developing countries for their role in pushing for its adoption.
According to him, the resolution aligns with ongoing efforts by African leaders to secure reparations and correct historical injustices. He noted that it reinforces the global commitment to confronting the legacy of slavery, racial discrimination, and colonialism.
The ambassador also pointed out that China was among 123 countries that supported the resolution, reaffirming its stance on addressing historical wrongs and promoting fairness in global affairs.
He highlighted the lasting impact of the transatlantic slave trade, noting that millions of Africans were forcibly taken, enslaved, and killed, with consequences that still affect development and social justice today.
Dunhai added that the resolution provides both moral and legal backing for ongoing conversations around reparations, the return of stolen cultural artefacts, and healing from historical trauma.
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Speaking on China-Africa relations, he said 2026 marks 70 years of diplomatic ties, built on mutual respect and cooperation. He emphasised that China remains committed to supporting Africa’s development through partnerships focused on economic growth and people’s welfare.
He also stressed that Nigeria and China share similar historical experiences and have strengthened ties in recent years, working together to boost development and economic progress.
Dunhai concluded by criticising global power politics and unilateral actions, warning that such approaches undermine fairness and justice, while reaffirming China’s commitment to standing with African nations in pursuing equality, dignity, and shared prosperity.
