Vice President Kashim Shettima has sparked controversy with his remarks about Kemi Badenoch, the newly elected leader of the United Kingdom’s Conservative Party.
Speaking during the 10th Annual Migration Dialogue at the State House in Abuja on Monday, Shettima accused Badenoch of disrespecting Nigeria, her country of origin.
He declared, “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.”
The Vice President’s comments came amid growing concerns over the narratives by diaspora leaders of Nigerian descent.
Badenoch, who was elected as the UK Conservative Party leader in November 2024, has often been vocal about governance in Nigeria.
In 2022, she accused Nigerian politicians of mismanaging public funds, sparking mixed reactions both at home and abroad.
Shettima’s words were biting as he went further, saying, “She is entitled to her own opinions; she has even every right to remove the Kemi from her name but that does not change the fact that the greatest black nation on earth is the nation called Nigeria.”
The Vice President underscored Nigeria’s global significance, highlighting its position as a leader among black nations.
He said, “One out of every three, four black men is a Nigerian, and by 2050, Nigeria will support the United States and will be the third most populous nation on earth.”
His remarks appeared to be a firm response to criticisms of Nigeria’s governance, particularly those coming from prominent figures in the diaspora.
In his address, Shettima also celebrated the contributions of migrants to global development.
He emphasised the government’s commitment to protecting the rights of Nigerians abroad and acknowledged their role in driving economic growth.
“Migrants are nation builders,” he said, highlighting their impact on shaping societies and fostering international partnerships.
His comments echoed the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with Nigerians in the diaspora.
Badenoch has yet to respond to Shettima’s remarks.
According to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) Chairperson Abike Dabiri-Erewa, attempts to engage Badenoch since her election have been met with silence.
“We reached out to her office, but there has been no response,” Dabiri-Erewa revealed.
This apparent snub has added fuel to the debate over Badenoch’s stance on Nigeria and her perceived detachment from her roots.
Badenoch’s rise in UK politics has been celebrated by some as a testament to the achievements of Nigerians in the diaspora.
However, her critiques of Nigerian governance have also drawn backlash.
Supporters argue that her comments reflect a commitment to addressing corruption and promoting accountability.
Critics, on the other hand, accuse her of perpetuating negative stereotypes about Nigeria on the global stage.
Shettima’s remarks can be seen as a broader call for unity among Nigerians, particularly those in influential positions abroad.
“We must remember where we come from,” he said, urging Nigerians to prioritize their heritage even as they make strides internationally.
His speech at the Migration Dialogue was not only a defense of Nigeria’s reputation but also a reminder of its potential.
“We have challenges, yes,” Shettima admitted. “But we are a nation of resilience, strength, and boundless possibilities.”
