Justice May Be Postponed, But It Will Never Be Denied

On March 25, 2026, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) convened for its 80th session to observe the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. In a historic move, it adopted a resolution proclaiming the trafficking of enslaved Africans and their racialized chattel enslavement as the most severe crime against humanity.

This resolution mirrors the theme from the 38th African Union Summit, "Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations," highlighting the persistent endeavors of African nations to elevate the cause of "reparatory justice" on a global platform. It is a significant affirmation of historical justice, a robust defense of the shared dignity of humanity, and a notable achievement in the global fight against the vestiges of colonialism, through which racial discrimination is resisted while justice and equity are upheld.

As I serve as the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, I would like to express my heartfelt congratulations on the passage of this UNGA resolution and commend African nations, alongside the wider developing world, for their commitment to justice and collaboration that led to this important outcome. China, in concert with 123 other nations, voted in support. Historically, China has stood firmly on the correct side of history, promoting the recognition of past responsibilities and advocating for the rectification of historical wrongs. We align with the rightful demands of African nations and the people of African descent in their quest for equal rights and fair justice.

The transatlantic slave trade constitutes one of the darkest episodes in human history, where millions of Africans were subjected to trafficking, enslavement, and violence. The repercussions of the racialized enslavement continue to adversely affect the developmental trajectory of the African continent today. The UNGA resolution seeks to restore historical truth, counteract current racial injustices and structural inequities, and establishes an essential moral and legal foundation for advancing reparations, the return of stolen cultural artifacts, and healing from trauma. It displays a unified commitment from the global community to defend equal human rights and reject any form of slavery and oppression.

2026 marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Africa. For the past seven decades, China's approach to Africa has remained unwavering—it has been one of respect, support, and developmental assistance. China does not intervene in the internal matters of African nations, nor does it impose its desires on them, much less engage in exploitative practices or hegemonic pressure. The relationship between China and Africa is rooted in equality, aimed at development, and focused on the well-being of the people, addressing the urgent needs of Africa, and enhancing its capacity for autonomous progress.

Recently, China announced comprehensive zero-tariff policies for all African nations with which it maintains diplomatic relations, exemplifying a model of mutually beneficial cooperation that underscores China’s steadfast dedication to Africa’s resurgence.

Despite the oceans separating China and Nigeria, our destinies are entwined. Both nations have endured the pain of foreign oppression and colonial exploitation. We deeply appreciate the invaluable nature of sovereignty, dignity, and growth, while steadfastly committing to protect the autonomy of our nations and the rights of all ethnic groups. In recent years, under the guidance of leadership from both countries, our relations have evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership. We are collaborating to build a high- level community between China and Nigeria, characterized by deepening political trust, fruitful practical cooperation, and increasingly closer people-to-people exchanges. 2026 also serves as a milestone, celebrating the 55th anniversary of our diplomatic relations, and China is eager to partner with Nigeria to align our development strategies, converting collaborative success into tangible benefits for our citizens, while invigorating Nigeria’s economic and social growth.

The global landscape is fraught with upheaval, marked by the dominance of hegemonic policies and power games that drastically compromise the established international order. A limited number of countries cling to colonial ideologies and a bullying mentality, prioritizing their selfish interests above global justice, which often leads to unwarranted interference in the affairs of others. History has consistently demonstrated that power politics garners no popular backing, while unilateral actions serve no purpose, and efforts to gain advantage through oppression are discarded by time. Embracing multilateralism, acknowledging the sovereignty and decisions of all nations, and opposing racial discrimination and aggressive conduct are essential for the global community to genuinely uphold human rights and dignity, and to achieve collective security and development.

Justice may be delayed, but it will never be absent. The passing of this groundbreaking UNGA Resolution enriches the narrative of global justice and instills renewed vigor into the solidarity and cooperation between China and Africa. Moving forward, China will remain unwaveringly supportive of Nigeria and all African nations in defending their dignity and fostering self- sustainable growth. We will deepen practical cooperation across all sectors, together confront hegemony and unilateral initiatives, protect international fairness and justice, and collaboratively promote the vision of a community with a shared future for humanity. Additionally, China will continue advocating for Africa on the international stage, assisting the continent in enhancing its presence and representation in global governance, and striving towards achieving complete historical justice. Together, we will let the values of equality, growth, and dignity shine brightly across the African continent, significantly contributing to a revitalized Africa and a promising future for all humankind.