As Nigerians, we are no strangers to criticism. Over the years, our nation has been the subject of intense scrutiny from both within and outside its borders. But when such critiques come from someone of Nigerian descent, like Kemi Badenoch, the weight feels heavier and more personal. While constructive criticism is necessary for growth, painting an overly bleak picture of Nigeria without acknowledging its strengths, resilience, and potential is not only disheartening but unpatriotic.

Kemi Badenoch’s recent comments about Nigeria being a “poor country” governed by “terrible governments” that destroy lives highlight undeniable truths about the challenges we face. Yes, Nigeria grapples with issues of corruption, inflation, and systemic inefficiencies, but reducing the entirety of our nation’s identity to a land of despair does a great disservice to the millions of Nigerians who, despite these obstacles, wake up every day with determination to create a better tomorrow.

It is ironic that someone who attributes her drive and success to her Nigerian roots would be so quick to dismiss the very nation that shaped her values. Badenoch claims to have experienced the consequences of bad governance, yet it is worth noting that many Nigerians in similar circumstances remain committed to rebuilding the country rather than tearing it down in foreign speeches.

What Badenoch overlooks in her narratives is Nigeria’s resilience. Ours is a nation of over 200 million people who refuse to give up. Entrepreneurs create opportunities despite a tough economy; artists, writers, and tech innovators carry Nigeria’s name proudly on the global stage. Our citizens excel worldwide, whether in medicine, law, education, or the creative industry. These successes are not achieved in spite of Nigeria; they are born out of our culture of resilience, our unyielding spirit, and our ability to turn challenges into stepping stones.

Yes, Nigeria has its problems. But which country doesn’t? The United Kingdom, for all its wealth, is grappling with its own issues of inequality, strikes, and political division.

Every nation has its struggles, but it is the collective effort of its people, especially its diaspora, that makes a difference. Rather than denounce Nigeria at every opportunity, why not contribute to its progress? Why not use the platform you’ve earned to inspire change, advocate for reforms, and highlight solutions rather than solely spotlighting failures?

Vice President Kashim Shettima’s advice to Badenoch to change her name if she is ashamed of her Nigerian heritage may have come off as harsh, but it carries a nugget of truth. Being Nigerian is not merely a label; it is a badge of honor. To be Nigerian is to belong to the largest Black nation on earth, a nation with immense cultural heritage, abundant resources, and a population teeming with talent and creativity. To be Nigerian is to stand tall in the face of adversity, knowing that greatness is within reach if we continue to work for it.

Ms. Badenoch’s success in the United Kingdom is a testament to the potential of Nigerian families to instill values of hard work, resilience, and ambition. That success should not be a reason to detach from her roots but rather a call to engage with her heritage more meaningfully. Nigerians in the diaspora hold a unique position to influence policy, create networks, and foster collaborations that could address some of the issues she rightly criticizes. But that influence begins with respect for one’s roots, not disdain.

Let this be a reminder to all Nigerians: our nation is far from perfect, but we are not defined by the failures of our government alone. We are a nation of achievers, dreamers, and builders. Our history is still being written, and every voice matters in shaping a brighter future.

Kemi Badenoch’s criticisms may sting, but they also serve as a wake-up call. Nigeria has problems to solve, no doubt, but it also has a wealth of human and natural resources waiting to be harnessed. Let us channel our energy not into denigrating our country but into making it the pride of Africa and the beacon of hope it is destined to be.

To Nigerians at home and abroad: the task of rebuilding this nation belongs to all of us. To Kemi Badenoch: it’s time to look back at your roots with a lens of hope, not just critique. Remember, no matter where life takes you, Nigeria is a part of you; and that is something to be proud of