Kemi Badenoch, leader of the UK Conservative Party, has once again criticized Nigeria’s governance, warning that Britain must avoid emulating what she described as the “poor leadership” that has caused widespread suffering in her home country.

In her first speech of the year on Thursday, Badenoch advocated for “real conservatism,” emphasizing a vision for a “better, richer, and safer” future for Britain’s younger generation. Her remarks highlighted her concerns about the long-term impact of Nigeria’s mismanagement and corruption.

Badenoch, known for her candid opinions, has previously condemned the Nigerian police, referring to them as “armed robbers” for their treatment of citizens. Her latest comments, however, have drawn sharp criticism from Nigerian officials. Vice President Kashim Shettima responded by urging Badenoch to change her name if she no longer wishes to be associated with Nigeria, which he called the “greatest black nation on earth.”

Reflecting on her personal experiences, Badenoch explained her deep concern for the UK’s future. “I know what it is like to have something and lose it,” she said. “I grew up in a poor country, and I watched my relatively wealthy family become poorer despite working harder, as inflation eroded their earnings.”

Badenoch also shared her story of moving to the UK at the age of 16 with her father’s last £100, driven by the hope for a better life. She expressed a strong commitment to ensuring that the UK does not face the same fate as Nigeria, where governance failures continue to devastate lives.

“When I came to the UK at 16, I had my father’s last £100 and the hope for a better future. I’ve lived through the consequences of poor leadership and never want that to happen here,” she said.