Kemi Badenoch Not Listed To Meet Tinubu During UK Visit

President Bola Tinubu’s official schedule for his ongoing visit to the United Kingdom has raised diplomatic eyebrows, as it excludes a formal meeting with Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch.

Tinubu, who arrived on Wednesday, March 18, for a two-day state visit, began his engagements with high-level interactions involving the British monarchy. He met with King Charles III and Queen Camilla, alongside consultations with interfaith representatives, before attending a state banquet where speeches were delivered by both sides.

The Nigerian leader is expected to hold talks with Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street on Thursday, March 19, in continuation of efforts to deepen bilateral relations between both countries.

However, despite Badenoch’s presence at the state banquet, she is not listed among officials scheduled for a formal engagement with Tinubu—an omission that contrasts with established diplomatic practice, where visiting heads of state typically meet both the prime minister and the opposition leader.

Badenoch, who has Nigerian roots, has in recent years publicly distanced herself from the country, making remarks critical of Nigeria’s governance and security challenges. She has previously warned against replicating such conditions in the UK.

Her comments have drawn reactions from Nigerian authorities, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, who accused her of repeatedly speaking unfavourably about her country of origin. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Conservative leader maintained that she is not focused on projecting a more positive image of Nigeria.

The absence of a direct meeting between Tinubu and Badenoch comes as the Nigerian president continues diplomatic engagements aimed at strengthening ties with the United Kingdom.

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