Boris Johnson Makes Headlines with Nigeria Visit and Political Endorsements

6 December 2025 Politics

Former Prime Minister Returns to International Stage

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has returned to the global spotlight in recent weeks, making significant appearances and comments that continue to shape political discourse. Johnson recently travelled to Nigeria, speaking at the Imo Economic Summit in Owerri on Thursday, where he praised the longstanding ties between Britain and Nigeria.

Endorsement of Kemi Badenoch as Future PM

Johnson described Kemi Badenoch, leader of the UK Conservative Party, as a potential future prime minister, crediting Nigeria for ‘sending’ her to Britain. During his address at the summit, Johnson stated humorously that Britain sends former UK prime ministers whilst Nigeria sends ‘a future United Kingdom prime minister in the form of Kemi Badenoch’. This endorsement comes as internal Conservative Party conversations intensify over leadership, with recent polling revealing dissatisfaction within sections of the party.

Controversial COVID-19 Response Under Scrutiny

Whilst Johnson makes international appearances, his time in office continues to face examination. A public inquiry concluded in November 2025 that Johnson oversaw a ‘toxic, chaotic and dithering’ response to the COVID pandemic, with delays to lockdown resulting in approximately 23,000 additional deaths. The report concluded that had Britain locked down just one week earlier on 16 March, the number of deaths in the first wave would have been reduced by about 23,000 or 48%.

Significance for British Politics

During his Nigeria visit, Johnson expressed confidence in the country’s security and sent ‘a positive message to investors and global observers about Nigeria’s potential for stability’. His continued involvement in international affairs and public commentary on Conservative Party leadership demonstrates his ongoing influence in British politics despite stepping down from office. As the Conservative Party navigates questions about its future direction, Johnson’s interventions continue to generate significant attention and debate within UK political circles.