President Bola Tinubu and Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip J. Pierre, have agreed to establish formal diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the Caribbean nation.
The agreement was reached during President Tinubu’s courtesy visit to Prime Minister Pierre’s official residence in Castries, on the second day of his state visit to Saint Lucia.
During their discussions, President Tinubu highlighted the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties shared between Africa and the Caribbean, referring to the people of Saint Lucia as “vauled friends and brothers”
He underscored the need to enhance collaboration between both nations in key sectors including trade, investment, tourism, education, and cultural exchange.
“Our two nations are bound by history, culture, and common aspirations. We are determined to nurture and expand this relationship,” Tinubu said in a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser (Information & Strategy).
“This is a bridge between Africa and the Caribbean—a pathway to deepen economic ties and foster mutual understanding.”
He also affirmed Nigeria’s willingness to work with Saint Lucia on global matters of mutual concern, such as climate change, disaster readiness, and financing for sustainable development. Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to advocating for the interests of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) at the international level.
Prime Minister Pierre, in his remarks, welcomed the dialogue and voiced hope for a deeper relationship between the two countries. He pointed to the historical connection between Saint Lucia and Nigeria, noting the legacy of Saint Lucian-born Sir Darnley Alexander, who served as Nigeria’s Chief Justice from 1975 to 1979.
Pierre outlined key sectors for possible cooperation, such as tourism, education, agriculture, healthcare, and infrastructure development. He also emphasized the cultural affinities between the two nations and drew attention to the international acclaim of Saint Lucia’s creative industry, showcased through events like the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival.
“There is an incredible potential for people-to-people exchange,” he said. “Saint Lucia is now a global centre for cultural festivals, and we see value in sharing with Nigeria as it builds its global entertainment footprint.”
The Prime Minister commended Nigeria’s progress in higher education and highlighted a mutual interest in fostering academic collaborations.
He stated that his administration is committed to the goal of having at least one university graduate in every household across Saint Lucia.
He also spoke about the evolving global landscape and stressed the importance of enhancing South-South cooperation. “There is a growing uncertainty about the integrity of friendships and alliances in international relationships. Countries in the Global South must create and deepen cooperative ties,” he remarked.
President Tinubu later visited Governor-General Cyril Charles at the Government House, where they discussed areas of Commonwealth collaboration, with a focus on joint efforts to address climate change and socioeconomic issues.
The President reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to assisting smaller nations and stated that his government would seek ways to strengthen trade and economic ties with Saint Lucia, especially in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing.
This visit forms part of President Tinubu’s broader diplomatic mission to expand Nigeria’s relations with countries across the Caribbean and South America.
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