By Zainab Bakare
Kenyan President William Ruto says his remarks on English proficiency were misinterpreted and taken out of context.
Speaking at the Mining Investment Conference and Expo in Nairobi, as aired by NTV Kenya, he explained the comments came from a private conversation later made public.
Ruto sent regards to Bola Tinubu and Nigerians, noting the viral clip misrepresented his intended message.
He stressed the remarks were meant to highlight English proficiency across Africa, not to insult Nigerians.
Ruto said Africans generally speak strong English, adding his comments were comparative rather than critical.
He also expressed hope the situation would not affect relations, calling for understanding and dialogue.
The clarification follows a viral video where he praised Kenya’s education system and appeared to contrast it with Nigeria’s.
Observers have linked the exchange to recent remarks by Tinubu comparing living conditions in Nigeria and other African countries.
The incident has sparked widespread social media debate on tone, intent, and diplomacy among African leaders.
