Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed disappointment over comments made by UK Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch, who he accused of denigrating her country of origin, Nigeria.
Speaking at the 10th Annual Migration Dialogue in Abuja, Shettima defended Nigeria’s resilience and contributions to the global black community, emphasizing the importance of migrants in fostering societal growth.
Shettima Criticises Badenoch
Addressing attendees at the State House on Monday, Shettima acknowledged Badenoch’s achievements but took issue with her disparaging remarks about Nigeria. He pointed out her 2022 statements, where she criticized corruption and poverty in Nigeria as formative experiences that influenced her decision to build a life in the UK.
“Kemi Badenoch… We are proud of her in spite of her efforts at denigrating her nation of origin,” Shettima said. He added, “She has 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.”
Kemi Badenoch’s Controversial Statements
In 2022, Kemi Badenoch made headlines when she described her childhood experiences in Nigeria, pointing to systemic corruption and unfulfilled political promises.
“I saw firsthand when politicians are in it for themselves,” she said. “They use private money as their piggybanks, promise the earth, and pollute the political atmosphere with failure to serve others.” Badenoch also highlighted how these experiences drove her to the UK, where she found opportunities through “hard work and honest endeavor.”
While her remarks resonated with some, they drew criticism from Nigerians who felt she overly generalized the challenges of her upbringing.
Nigeria’s Global Standing and Future Potential
Shettima used the platform to reaffirm Nigeria’s global significance, emphasizing its growing influence among black nations.
“One out of every three or four black men is a Nigerian,” he stated. “By 2050, Nigeria will be the third most populous nation on earth, supporting the United States in global dynamics.” His remarks underscore Nigeria’s position as a cornerstone of Africa’s cultural and demographic influence, countering narratives that diminish the nation’s achievements.
As Nigeria positions itself for a dynamic future, fostering unity and celebrating the nation’s resilience remain key to its identity.
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