London Mayor Settles Ghana-Nigeria jollof debate at London-Accra initiative launch, his choice of best jollof sparks humour.
In a surprising twist at the launch of the London-Accra Initiative, Mayor Sadiq Khan ignited a culinary firestorm by wading into the longstanding Ghana-Nigeria jollof rice debate. Speaking to a vibrant crowd of diplomats, chefs, and cultural enthusiasts, Khan boldly declared that the best jollof rice isn’t found in Accra or Lagos but right in London.
[VIDEO] London Mayor Settles Ghana-Nigeria Jollof Debate at London-Accra Initiative Launch
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His claim, delivered with a playful grin, drew gasps and laughter from attendees, as he credited London’s diverse culinary scene for producing a unique, unbeatable version of the West African dish. The mayor’s comments have since sparked heated discussions online, with foodies and West African communities weighing in on whether London’s melting pot can truly outshine the traditional powerhouses of jollof.
The London-Accra Initiative, aimed at fostering cultural and economic ties between the two cities, provided the perfect stage for Khan’s provocative statement. He highlighted how London’s multicultural communities, particularly its Ghanaian and Nigerian diasporas, have blended their culinary traditions with local ingredients to create a distinct jollof recipe that he believes surpasses the originals.
“London’s jollof has a bit of everything Ghanaian spice, Nigerian flair, and a British twist,” Khan said, citing the use of locally sourced vegetables and innovative cooking techniques. While he praised both Ghanaian and Nigerian jollof for their authenticity, he argued that London’s version benefits from a fusion of flavors that reflects the city’s diversity, making it a global contender in the jollof wars.
Social media platforms, have erupted with reactions, ranging from humorous memes to passionate defenses of Ghanaian and Nigerian recipes. Some praised Khan for celebrating London’s cultural fusion, while others accused him of sidestepping the sacred rivalry. As the debate rages on, Khan’s comments have undeniably put London’s culinary scene in the spotlight, with restaurants across the city now promoting their own jollof rice specials. Whether his claim holds up remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the jollof rice debate is far from settled.
