VP Shettima criticises Kemi Badenoch over remarks on Nigeria

Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has called out Kemi Badenoch, the recently elected leader of the United Kingdom’s Conservative Party, for her past remarks criticizing Nigerian politicians. Shettima expressed disappointment, accusing Badenoch of undermining her country of origin, Nigeria.

The Vice President made these statements during the 10th Annual Migration Dialogue held at the State House in Abuja on Monday, addressing both domestic and international migration concerns.

Badenoch, a British-Nigerian, drew criticism in 2022 when she, as a UK Prime Minister hopeful, alleged that Nigerian politicians misuse public funds for personal benefits. Despite her Nigerian roots, Badenoch’s comments sparked backlash from Nigerian leaders and the diaspora.

After Badenoch’s election as the Conservative Party leader in November 2024, the Nigerian government, through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), reportedly reached out to extend congratulations and foster collaboration. However, NIDCOM Chairperson Abike Dabiri-Erewa revealed that the office received no response from Badenoch.

Shettima remarked on Badenoch’s stance during his speech, stating:

“Kemi Badenoch, 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 has every right to remove the ‘Kemi’ from her name, but it does not change the fact that the greatest Black nation on earth is Nigeria.”

Highlighting Nigeria’s prominence, Shettima continued:

“One out of every three or four Black people in the world is Nigerian. By 2050, Nigeria will rank as the third most populous nation on earth, standing alongside the United States.