Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima criticized Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the UK Conservative Party, for making negative comments about Nigeria.
Speaking at the 10th Annual Migration Dialogue in the capital Abuja, Shettima expressed that despite Badenoch’s criticisms of Nigeria, they were proud of the country’s achievements. Badenoch, born in London to a Nigerian family and having lived in Lagos until the age of 16, later moved to the United Kingdom. It is reported that in her speeches, Badenoch often compared her experiences in Nigeria with the security and freedoms she found in the UK.
During her speech at the International Democracy Alliance Forum in Washington, Badenoch discussed her family’s economic struggles, saying, “I was born into a wealthy family and received a good education. But I also know what poverty means. My family lost their wealth due to poor government policies, and I experienced this firsthand.”
While acknowledging Badenoch’s right to freedom of speech, Shettima emphasized Nigeria’s importance on the global stage. He pointed out that Nigeria has a large population and significant global influence, criticizing Badenoch for belittling her own roots.
“One in every three or four black people is Nigerian, and by 2050, Nigeria will surpass the US in population, becoming the third most populous country in the world,” Shettima stated, adding that Badenoch’s criticisms would not change Nigeria’s significance.
In response to inquiries from the British media, Badenoch’s representative stated, “Kemi is not concerned with improving Nigeria’s image. She is the leader of the opposition in the UK.”
