Kemi Badenoch, the UK opposition leader has criticised Nigeria’s governance and economic management, saying the country’s long-standing electricity challenges reflect years of poor policy decisions rather than lack of natural resources.

Speaking on how her upbringing shaped her political views, she said Nigeria’s oil wealth has not translated into reliable electricity or broad economic prosperity.

“Nigeria is an oil-producing country that has never had electricity,” she said, adding that abundant resources alone are not enough without effective governance and sound public policy.

Badenoch also compared policies she opposes in the United Kingdom with what she described as governance practices during Nigeria’s military era in the 1980s and 1990s.

She said some modern policy approaches resemble those earlier systems, which she argued were marked by strong state control (socialism) over the economy.

According to her (socialism) excessive government intervention and redistribution-focused policies can weaken economic performance and lead to long-term financial difficulties.

She said these approaches often result in governments expanding control over the economy in ways that can reduce productivity and sustainability.

Reflecting on her background, Badenoch said her experiences growing up in Nigeria continue to influence her views on governance and economic policy, particularly her preference for limited state control and stronger private sector-driven growth.

She added that observing development challenges in poorer countries shaped her belief that such outcomes should be avoided in the United Kingdom.