“Presidency Dismisses Kemi Badenoch’s Remarks as Irrelevant to Nigeria”

The Nigerian Presidency has dismissed recent remarks by Kemi Badenoch, leader of the UK Conservative Party, stating that they will have no impact on Nigeria or its international relations. In her latest comments, Badenoch expressed concerns about the potential consequences of ineffective governance in the United Kingdom, drawing a comparison to Nigeria’s governance issues.

During her first speech of the year at an event hosted by the British think-tank Onward, Badenoch warned that Britain’s system could falter, echoing concerns she has raised about governance in Nigeria. She used the analogy to emphasize the need for the Conservative Party to rebuild trust and position itself as a solution to the country’s challenges.

Reacting to these remarks, Daniel Bwala, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communications, dismissed their relevance to Nigeria’s diplomatic or economic efforts. Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme, Bwala stated, “I don’t think it would have an effect because she’s not the government in power. Usually, these international relationships or collaborations are dealings between governments. Because she’s not the government in power, it will not have any effect.”

Bwala further noted that Badenoch’s background as a Nigerian-born politician would make investors discerning about her comments, suggesting they would understand the rhetoric behind her words. While acknowledging Badenoch’s achievements in the UK, Bwala argued that she was using populist tactics to gain support by exploiting public discontent.

He criticized her rhetoric, claiming that it was counterproductive and harmful to Nigeria’s image. “The only problem we have with Kemi, I think, is the rhetoric because Kemi belongs to the right base in the United Kingdom, which thrives on populism. This populism often feeds off the anger of the people,” Bwala explained.

He also drew a comparison between Badenoch and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, of Indian origin, who has faced challenges involving India’s reputation but has refrained from using those issues to attack his own heritage. In contrast, Bwala argued, Badenoch consistently denigrates Nigeria as part of her political strategy.

Bwala concluded by reiterating that Badenoch’s remarks would not negatively affect Nigeria’s standing or its efforts to attract investment from the international community.