President Bola Tinubu’s official schedule for his
ongoing visit to the United Kingdom does not include a meeting with Kemi
Badenoch, marking a departure from the usual diplomatic practice of engaging
both the prime minister and the opposition leader.
Tinubu arrived in the UK on Wednesday, March 18, for a
two-day state visit. On his first day, he met with members of the British royal
family, including King Charles III and Queen Camilla, as well as interfaith
leaders. He also attended a state banquet where both sides exchanged formal
remarks.
The Nigerian leader is scheduled to meet Keir Starmer
at 10 Downing Street on Thursday, March 19. Although Badenoch was present at
the state banquet, she was not officially listed for a bilateral meeting with
Tinubu.
Badenoch, a British politician of Nigerian descent,
has in recent years distanced herself from her heritage and made critical
comments about Nigeria’s governance, citing issues such as insecurity and poor
leadership. She has stated that she does not want similar challenges replicated
in the UK.
Her remarks have sparked reactions from Nigerian
officials, including Kashim Shettima, who accused her of consistently speaking
negatively about her country of origin. A spokesperson for Badenoch has
maintained that she is not focused on promoting a more positive image of
Nigeria.
The development highlights ongoing tensions and
differing perspectives between Nigerian officials and the UK Conservative
leader.
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