Nigeria is a country blessed with so many talents and the country is rich in human resources. It is not so shocking that Nigerians no matter where they find themselves strive to be the better version and represent their country well. Not just in the country, Nigerians have also taken on politics in different parts of the world and they are thriving rightly. Naijassador has compiled this list of 7 top politicians overseas of Nigerian descent you should know.
1. Chuka Umunna (United Kingdom)
Chuka Umunna is a British politician of Nigerian descent. He was born to a Nigerian father, but his mother is of English-Irish descent. As a British politician, he was a Member of Parliament (MP) from 2010 to 2019 when he represented the Streatham constituency in London. Also, a member of the Labour Party in the United Kingdom, he served as the Shadow Business Secretary from 2011 to 2015. While in office, Chuka Umunna was a vocal advocate for the Remain campaign during the Brexit referendum. He however joined the Liberal Democrats in 2019 and has since continued to play a very significant role in politics in the country.
2. Kemi Badenoch (United Kingdom)
Another popular politician in the United Kingdom of Nigerian descent is Kemi Badenoch. She is a prominent member of the British Conservative Party and a Member of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. Before now, Kemi has previously served as the Minister for International Development where she spoke out often for free markets and limited government intervention. She has remained consistent in her political pursuits and has become a notable figure in British politics.
3. Debo Adegbile (United States)
Another influential Nigerian-American politician is Debo Patrick Adegbile. He is a successful American lawyer and a great advocate of civil rights. He has served in various sectors within the U.S. government, some of them including serving as the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights. Debo Adegbile’s commitment to social justice and his deep understanding of civil rights issues have made him a respected figure in American politics.
4. Oye Owolewa (United States)
Adeoye Owolewa famously known as Oye Owolewa is a Nigerian-American politician and representative. He has made incredible history as the first Nigerian-American to be elected to the U.S. Congress. He was born in Boston, Massachusetts to Nigerian parents and has lived most of his life overseas. Owolewa represented the District of Columbia as a non-voting Shadow Representative in the U.S. House of Representatives when he was elected into office in 2020. Although a pharmacist by profession, Owolewa is also deeply involved in community service, as he focuses on education and healthcare initiatives.
5. Chi Onwurah (United Kingdom)
Chi Onwurah is another prominent British politician of Nigerian descent. Born to a Nigerian father and a British mother, she has represented Newcastle upon Tyne Central as a Member of Parliament since 2010. Onwurah is a member of the Labour Party and has served in various shadow ministerial roles, focusing on science, technology, and innovation. She is known for her advocacy on issues such as digital rights, social justice, and promoting diversity within the tech industry.
6. Segun Adeyina (United States)
Segun Adeyina is a Nigerian-American politician who has made significant contributions to local governance in the United States. He was elected to the Georgia State House of Representatives in 2023 where he represents District 110. He is committed to advocating for education reform, public safety, and economic development within his district. With a background in education and engineering, Adeyina brings a unique perspective to his legislative work, focusing on policies that promote STEM education and community empowerment.
7. Solomon Adesanya (United States)
Solomon Adesanya is a Nigerian-American politician known for his leadership and community service in Georgia. He was elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 2023 where he represents District 43. His focus is bringing a strong focus on healthcare, education, and affordable housing to his legislative agenda. Solomon Adesanya was born in Nigeria to Nigerian parents but was raised in the United States. He uses his platform to advocate for policies that support social equity and economic opportunity.
Conclusion
While these seven politicians may have not significantly contributed to the Nigerian political scene, the fact that they are Nigerians will never be erased. They have made the country proud by representing her very well in their political endeavours in their respective countries. These politicians in the diaspora have continued to shine as an inspiration for the younger generations both in the country and overseas.
Written by Sarah Aboje
