Ahmed Tijani, a seasoned professional in operations, strategy, and project management at Amazon, recently shared his candid thoughts on Kemi Badenoch’s controversial comments about Nigeria, her country of origin. His opinion paints a broader picture of what Nigeria should expect from its diaspora—loyalty, constructive criticism, and a commitment to its progress, rather than opportunistic disparagement for political gain.
Tijani expressed disappointment in Badenoch, suggesting that her remarks were crafted to elevate her political ambitions within the United Kingdom. “She’s just another politician, trying to work her way to the top of the food chain,” Tijani said. He noted that while Badenoch may one day achieve her goal of becoming Prime Minister, the British public would still view her through the lens of her heritage. “She should remember that on the day she erred, many English men and women will remember that she’s just another British-born Nigerian,” he added.
Diaspora Responsibility: Fairweather or Faithful Nigerians?
Tijani criticized what he described as “fairweather Nigerians abroad” who are quick to undermine Nigeria to score political points. These individuals, he argued, lack the commitment to contribute meaningfully to the country’s progress. “Nigeria and Nigerians do not need people like her as ‘help from overseas.’ Folks like these do not mind throwing the country under the bus to score cheap political points,” he stated.
He further called on the Nigerian government to be more discerning in its relationships with the diaspora. “The Nigerian government should stop ‘gumming body’ with everyone overseas just because of their Nigerian name,” he urged. Instead, Tijani suggested that the government align itself with individuals who genuinely have Nigeria’s best interests at heart.
A Biblical Call to Action
Drawing inspiration from Biblical figures like Nehemiah and Daniel, Tijani highlighted their roles as foreign officials who prioritized the welfare of their people. “Nehemiah and Daniel were powerful government officials in a foreign land who acknowledged the issues of their people but never scored political points with them. Many of them helped fix the country of Israel,” he noted.
In Tijani’s view, Nigeria’s diaspora should emulate these examples, using their platforms and opportunities abroad to support the country constructively, rather than disparaging it for personal or political gain.
A New Type of Diaspora Advocacy
Tijani’s message underscores the need for a paradigm shift among Nigerians in the diaspora. “We need folks who understand all the problems, appreciate the Nigerian advantages (of course, Nigeria does have some advantages in the comity of countries), and can help the country move forward—even if it’s just a step,” he said.
He acknowledged that while Nigeria has its challenges, it also offers unique opportunities, many of which were leveraged by families like Badenoch’s to achieve global success. This, Tijani argues, is a privilege that should inspire gratitude and constructive engagement, not public ridicule.
Conclusion: Building Bridges, Not Burning Them
Ahmed Tijani’s thoughtful critique serves as a wake-up call for the Nigerian diaspora to reflect on their role in shaping perceptions of the country abroad. His appeal for a balanced and patriotic approach emphasizes that success in foreign lands should not come at Nigeria’s expense.
Tijani concluded on a hopeful note, reminding the world that there are countless Nigerians abroad who remain committed to fostering positive change, both in their countries of migration and their homeland. “Our greatness in our land of migration should not be at Nigeria’s expense (and vice-versa),” he said.
This powerful perspective reinforces the idea that true progress comes from building bridges of collaboration, not burning them for fleeting personal gains.
