By Identity, I’m Not Really Nigerian,” Says UK Tory Leader Kemi Badenoch
London / Abuja – August 1–2, 2025
Kemi Badenoch, the newly appointed leader of the UK Conservative Party, has stated that she no longer identifies as Nigerian, despite being of Nigerian ancestry and having spent part of her childhood in the country.
Less Nigerian by Identity, More Yoruba by Heart
Speaking on the Rosebud podcast, Badenoch described herself as Nigerian by birth and ancestry, but clarified:
“By identity, I’m not really.” She added: “I have not renewed my Nigerian passport in over two decades.”
Home is Where My Family Is
While acknowledging her upbringing in Lagos and deep interest in Nigerian affairs, Badenoch emphasized that her true sense of belonging lies in the UK—where her husband, children, and political life are based, She elaborated:
“Home is where my now family is… The Conservative Party is very much part of my family, my extended family, I call it.”
Ethnic Identity Over National Identity
In a separate interview reported by Arise News and others, Badenoch went further, stating she identifies primarily as Yoruba—not Nigerian—and expressed disdain for being grouped with northern Nigeria, which she associated with extremism.
“I have nothing in common with the people from the north… the Boko Haram… those were our ethnic enemies,” she said.
Backlash and Broader Implications
Her remarks have provoked considerable controversy. Critics—including Nigerian leaders—have condemned her language as divisive. Vice President Kashim Shettima suggested she could simply drop her Nigerian name if she no longer identifies with the country. Analysts say her distancing from Nigeria reflects a calculated appeal to British nationalist voters and undermines diaspora credibility
