Vice President Kashim Shettima has called out the newly elected leader of the UK Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch, for her critical remarks about Nigeria.
Speaking on Monday during the 10th Annual Migration Dialogue held at the State House in Abuja, the Vice President addressed Badenoch’s comments, stating: “Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the British Conservative Party, remains a source of pride to us, despite her attempts to discredit her country of origin. She is entitled to her opinions and even has the right to drop ‘Kemi’ from her name.
“However, this does not change the fact that Nigeria is the greatest black nation on earth. One in every three or four black individuals globally is a Nigerian. By 2050, Nigeria will not only support the United States but will also become the third most populous nation in the world.”
Shettima also underscored the vital contributions of migrants to societal progress and economic growth, reaffirming the Nigerian government’s dedication to safeguarding migrant rights and recognizing their positive impact on national development.
Badenoch, a UK member of parliament of Nigerian descent, faced criticism in 2022 after accusing Nigerian politicians of misusing public funds.
Despite her recent election as UK Conservative Party leader in November 2024, efforts by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), led by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, to engage her have reportedly gone unanswered.