UK Conservative politician #KemiBadenoch has sparked renewed discussion on national identity and cultural heritage after expressing that she no longer identifies as Nigerian.

During an appearance on the Rosebud podcast, Badenoch revealed that she has not renewed her Nigerian passport in nearly two decades and does not view Nigeria as central to her identity. She described herself as Nigerian by ancestry, but not by personal affiliation.

Born in London and raised partly in Nigeria and the United States, Badenoch returned to the UK at the age of 16. She explained that her parents encouraged her to leave Nigeria due to the country’s deteriorating economic and political landscape at the time. They felt that she would have better opportunities abroad.

Now a senior figure within British politics and often mentioned as a potential future leader of her party, Badenoch said her identity today is shaped by her family life, professional journey, and upbringing in the UK. While she maintains an interest in Nigeria’s development and political affairs, she shared that she never formed a deep emotional bond with the country.

Her remarks have stirred mixed reactions within the Nigerian diaspora and wider African communities. Some see her comments as an honest reflection of the identity shifts experienced by second-generation immigrants. Others believe they reflect a distancing from one’s cultural background, especially given her heritage and prominence.

In a public response in 2024, Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima commented on Badenoch’s detachment from her roots, suggesting that cultural ties should not be easily dismissed. His remarks highlighted the sensitivity around national pride and representation for those with dual heritage.

Badenoch also revisited a topic she has addressed previously, saying she has not personally experienced racism in the UK. She recalled being surprised at the equal treatment she received, challenging assumptions about race-based discrimination.

The conversation has fueled broader discussions around identity, belonging, and how people with multicultural backgrounds navigate their personal narratives in the public eye.