By 9jaeye 
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) recently made efforts to reach out to Kemi Badenoch, the newly elected leader of the UK’s Conservative Party and a high-profile British politician with Nigerian roots. However, NiDCOM received no response, raising questions about her connection to her Nigerian heritage. While Badenoch’s ascent in British politics is a point of pride for some Nigerians, her reluctance to engage with her heritage has created mixed reactions.
NiDCOM, led by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has not wavered in extending an open hand. Dabiri-Erewa expressed a willingness to connect with Badenoch, emphasizing that the commission does not aim to pressure her into cultural identification. “We won’t force her to identify with Nigeria,” she stated, underscoring NiDCOM’s stance on respecting individual choice. Yet, this lack of response has not gone unnoticed, as many in Nigeria hoped to see more openness to her heritage from the new party leader.
Meanwhile, Badenoch has often referenced her Nigerian upbringing in public speeches, although she has always been clear about her commitment to British identity. For instance, during her Conservative Party leadership campaign, she expressed that she loves the UK as it is, adding that she has no desire for it to reflect the challenges she observed growing up in Nigeria. While these sentiments underline her loyalty to Britain, they have also sparked debate among Nigerians who feel her words distance her from her roots.
Growing Criticism in Nigeria
Expectedly, her comments stirred frustration among Nigerians, including from some officials. In the past, her remarks on Nigerian political practices—calling them self-serving—prompted a response from Dabiri-Erewa, who voiced disappointment. Her perspective has brought about mixed emotions, leaving some Nigerians feeling disconnected from Badenoch’s journey.
NiDCOM’s Unyielding Position
In the end, NiDCOM stands firm on its open invitation without imposing any demands. Badenoch’s silence leaves a lingering curiosity among Nigerians, who wonder if she will ever choose to bridge her British and Nigerian identities as she leads one of the UK’s major political parties. Whether or not she responds, NiDCOM’s stance remains grounded in respect for personal choice.
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