From Roots to Reality: Kemi Badenoch's Bold Rejection of Her Nigerian Identity

In a striking revelation on Gyles Brandreth’s Rosebud podcast, Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch declared that she no longer identifies as Nigerian and has not renewed her Nigerian passport since the early 2000s. Born in the UK, Badenoch spent part of her childhood in Nigeria and the US before returning to England at the age of 16 due to Nigeria’s deteriorating political and economic conditions. Though she acknowledges her Nigerian ancestry, she states, “by identity, I’m not really” Nigerian.

Reflecting on her upbringing, Badenoch expressed that despite having strong family ties and a deep interest in Nigeria, home for her is where her current family is in the UK. She explained her decision to let her Nigerian passport expire, saying, “I don’t identify with it anymore. Most of my life has been in the UK and I’ve just never felt the need to.” Badenoch revealed her experiences in Nigeria have significantly influenced her political views, particularly her disdain for socialism.

Recalling her childhood, she noted feeling a sense of alienation in Nigeria, which led her to believe she belonged in the UK. Citing a tragic reason for her return to England—her parents’ fears about her future in Nigeria—Badenoch shared that she did not encounter meaningful racial prejudice in the UK, emphasizing that her experiences shaped her perspective on race and identity.

Last year, Badenoch faced backlash from Nigeria’s vice-president, who accused her of denigrating the nation amid her criticisms of its governance during her youth. Badenoch’s remarks not only invite discussion about identity but also illuminate the connections and disconnections individuals may feel with their countries of origin as they navigate their personal and political lives.