Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has come under fire for downplaying Nigeria’s escalating insecurity during his recent visit.
Speaking at the Imo State Economic Summit 2025 in Owerri, hosted by Governor Hope Uzodinma, Johnson claimed, “I feel perfectly safe in Nigeria,” dismissing prevailing concerns about the country’s security situation.
The statement sparked outrage from the American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID), who condemned Johnson’s remarks as an affront to victims of violence. AVID President Chief Sylvester Onyia challenged Johnson to travel unprotected across Nigeria before making such claims.
AVID highlighted recent violent events, including the abduction of 18 passengers near the Imo/Abia border just days before Johnson’s visit, and an attack on the advance team of Abia State Governor Alex Otti en route to Owerri airport.
The veterans accused Johnson of attempting to “launder Nigeria’s image” amid ongoing violence and questioned whether he was paid to promote a false sense of security. They also criticised his dismissal of UK travel warnings and US intelligence reports that highlight Nigeria’s rising insecurity.
“If he truly feels safe, let him travel by road from Imo to Borno State to test that claim,” AVID stated.
They further condemned Johnson for mocking the suffering of Nigerians and accused Britain of benefiting from Nigeria’s resources while ignoring the plight of its people.
AVID also criticised Governor Uzodinma for allegedly using public funds to bring in foreign figures like Johnson to polish the state’s image instead of tackling pressing security and welfare issues.
The group concluded by urging Nigerians to reject any attempts by external powers to maintain colonial-era influence.
“Nigerians must rise now and say enough is enough. Colonialists will no longer hold us down,” the statement declared.
