Tinubu Seeks Visa Waivers, Scholarships as Nigeria Establishes Diplomatic Ties with Saint Lucia, OECS
Nigeria has formally established diplomatic relations with Saint Lucia, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu proposing a series of initiatives to deepen ties between Nigeria and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
Speaking on Monday during a special joint session of the Senate and House of Assembly of Saint Lucia, held at the William Jefferson Clinton Ballroom, Sandals Grande, President Tinubu described the new relationship as a “symbolic bridge” to foster stronger cooperation. The Nigerian leader was addressing an audience that included leaders from OECS member-states such as Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda, St Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, Montserrat, Saint Martin, and Saint Vincent.
President Tinubu proposed the creation of a Joint Commission or Political Consultation Agreement to serve as a formal mechanism for structured engagement between Nigeria and the OECS. He also announced Nigeria’s willingness to grant visa waivers to OECS diplomatic and official passport holders, urging the Caribbean states to reciprocate the gesture to ease official travel and enhance institutional cooperation.
“I respectfully urge a reciprocal gesture to enable smoother movement of officials and foster closer institutional cooperation,” he said.
In a bid to promote cultural exchange and educational ties, President Tinubu further offered full scholarships to students from OECS countries. He underscored Nigeria’s commitment to supporting regional development by extending the Technical Aid Corps (TAC) programme to the OECS, which will provide skilled professionals in education, healthcare, and engineering.
The President also advocated for partnerships between maritime universities in Nigeria and the Caribbean, as well as joint scientific research initiatives, particularly in health and climate resilience.
“Beyond maritime education, both regions should explore joint scientific research initiatives, particularly addressing common health challenges,” Tinubu stated.
Read Also:
Addressing the existential threats posed by climate change, especially to small island states, President Tinubu called for collaborative research on climate adaptation, sustainable agriculture, and disaster preparedness.
“We can deepen our understanding and enhance our collective resilience by sharing research findings on climate impacts, adaptation strategies, and disaster risk management,” he said.
Highlighting Nigeria’s Afrocentric foreign policy, Tinubu said the establishment of diplomatic relations was anchored in a shared African heritage and Pan-African ideals.
“My presence here today symbolises Nigeria’s renewed commitment to re-engage with these enduring ties, recognising their strategic and emotional significance,” he said. “Nigeria, as the most populous nation on the African continent and the foremost Black nation globally, has long stood at the vanguard of advocacy for the dignity and advancement of Black people worldwide.”
On trade and economic diplomacy, the Nigerian leader extended an invitation to OECS countries to leverage Nigeria’s position as Africa’s largest market. He called for enhanced commercial partnerships, particularly in agriculture, manufacturing, and services.
“Together, we can leverage our respective strengths to attract investment, create jobs, and foster joint ventures that benefit both our peoples,” he added.
President Tinubu also reflected on Nigeria’s recent economic reforms, stating that his administration, since assuming office in May 2023, has been working to lay the foundation for sustainable growth and development.
The President ended his address by invoking the words of Pan-Africanist Marcus Garvey and an African proverb, urging unity among African-descended peoples across the globe.
“Get organised and you will compel the world to respect you,” he quoted Garvey. “And as the African proverb teaches us: ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.’ Let us journey together, united in purpose and fortified by our common heritage.”
The event was attended by over 300 guests, including OECS Heads of Government, members of the diplomatic corps, Saint Lucian lawmakers, and the Nigerian community in the Caribbean nation.
By PRNigeria
