“She is entitled to her own opinions; she has even every right to remove the Kemi from her name, but that does not underscore the fact that the greatest black nation on earth is the nation called Nigeria.”
The Nigerian Vice President, Kashim Shettima however thinks that considering her exalted position as the leader of the UK Conservative Party, Ms. Badenoch shall have been more measured in her comments and not be so disrespectful to Nigeria.
Badenoch, who has Nigerian heritage, recently advocated for stricter immigration measures, citing concerns over the strain on public services and societal balance.
Speaking at the Annual Migration Dialogue in Abuja, Shettima addressed her stance, acknowledging her success while rejecting her portrayal of Nigeria.
He noted Nigeria’s global significance, emphasizing its growing population and influence.
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Badenoch’s previous remarks about her childhood in Nigeria have also drawn attention.
She described facing corruption and hardship before migrating to the UK, where she pursued better opportunities.
While her narrative highlights challenges in Nigeria, Shettima countered by defending the nation’s resilience and potential.
He said: “Kemi Badenoch, is the leader of the British Labour or Conservative Party. We are proud of her in spite of her efforts at denigrating her nation of origin.
“She is entitled to her own opinions; she has even every right to remove the Kemi from her name, but that does not underscore the fact that the greatest black nation on earth is the nation called Nigeria.
“One out of every three, four black men is a Nigerian and by 2050, Nigeria will support the United States, will be the third most populous nation on earth.”
It must be noted however, that Ms. Badenoch is not the first highly placed Nigerian yo make such uncomplimentary remark about the country.
Shettima’s principal, President Bola Tinubu is also recorded to have made a remark in the past that he did not believe in one Nigeria.
