Former UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson has praised Kemi Badenoch, current leader of the UK Conservative Party, describing her as a potential future prime minister and attributing her rise to her Nigerian heritage.
Johnson made the remarks in Owerri during the ongoing Imo Economic Summit, where he also highlighted the historical and professional ties between Nigeria and the UK.
He noted the two-way exchange of trade and expertise, saying Britain exports “pharmaceuticals, bankers, services of all kinds, automotive parts… and whisky — huge quantities of whisky.”
In turn, he said Nigeria contributes “oil and gas; Nollywood movies; brilliant doctors and nurses; technicians; and tech geniuses” to the UK.
Humorously, he added, “And we send you former United Kingdom prime ministers, and you send us a future United Kingdom prime minister in the form of Kemi Badenoch, who comes from Nigeria and is doing better and better these days.”
Johnson’s comments come amid ongoing discussions within the Conservative Party over potential successors should Badenoch step down before the next general election.
Recent polls have highlighted some dissatisfaction within the party following poor local election results.
Potential leadership contenders reportedly include Robert Jenrick, shadow justice secretary, and James Cleverly, shadow housing secretary.
Johnson’s endorsement of Badenoch underscored her prominence, even as she has previously stated she no longer identifies with Nigeria, her country of ancestral origin.
