UK Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch warns against Britain following Nigeria’s path of poor governance, citing her personal experiences of inflation and economic decline. Speaking at a think tank event, she emphasized "real conservatism" as a solution for Britain’s future, while her remarks drew criticism from Nigerian leaders, including Vice President Kashim Shettima.
UK Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has drawn upon her Nigerian upbringing to highlight her commitment to preserving Britain’s stability and prosperity. In her first speech of the year, Badenoch stressed the dangers of poor governance, warning against Britain following the path of nations plagued by mismanagement.
Reflecting on her early life in Nigeria, Badenoch shared how her family, once financially stable, experienced a drastic decline due to inflation and ineffective leadership. “I’ve lived through the consequences of terrible governments that destroy lives,” she stated, recounting her move to the UK at 16 with her father’s last £100.
While promoting “real conservatism” as a solution for Britain’s future, Badenoch compared her Nigerian experiences with the challenges facing the UK. She has previously criticized Nigerian governance, accusing its leaders of corruption and its police force of exploitation. These remarks have provoked a backlash, including from Vice President Kashim Shettima, who defended Nigeria as a great Black nation and rebuked Badenoch for her frequent disparagements.
Despite the criticism, Badenoch remains unapologetic. A spokesperson emphasized her focus on ensuring Britain avoids similar pitfalls, underscoring her belief in policies prioritizing long-term national well-being.
