Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has applauded Nigeria for its growing impact on global development, saying the country has contributed immensely to various sectors worldwide — even joking that Nigeria “sent the UK a future prime minister in Kemi Badenoch.”
Johnson made the remark on Thursday during the 2025 Imo State Economic Summit held in Owerri, the state capital.
He noted that while the United Kingdom exports goods such as pharmaceuticals and automotive parts, Nigeria gives back just as much through oil and gas, Nollywood films, medical professionals, engineers, and outstanding innovators in the tech space.
“I won’t mention certain former French colonies,” he quipped, “but it is wonderful that Nigeria and the UK remain closely connected. We share history, language, and a constant exchange of brilliant Nigerians moving to and from Britain, just as many Britons make their way to Nigeria. It makes me very proud.”
He continued, “We are grateful for this partnership. We send you former UK prime ministers, and in return, you send us future UK prime ministers like Kemi Badenoch, who is doing remarkably well.”
Johnson emphasized that beyond trade, the greatest strength of both nations lies in what they accomplish together.
He highlighted Nigeria’s tremendous influence globally — from a Nigerian performer who stood out at the King’s coronation, to Premier League stars admired worldwide, to Nigerian artists showcased at top British galleries, and Anglo-Nigerian movies now competing for Oscars.
Johnson, who led the UK and the Conservative Party between 2019 and 2022, said Imo State holds immense promise, and Nigeria’s brightest years are still ahead.
Future Is AI
Praising Governor Hope Uzodimma for improvements in infrastructure and security, Johnson underscored the transformative role artificial intelligence will play in the future.
“The future is AI. The demand for clean and sustainable electricity will skyrocket because of artificial intelligence,” he said.
He applauded Imo State’s efforts to expand clean energy and encouraged British companies to tap into opportunities in Nigeria.
The summit brought together top political and business figures. Among those present were President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima; Liberian President Joseph Boakai; former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon; several state governors; Dangote Group Chairman Aliko Dangote; and former Afreximbank president Benedict Oramah.
