₦airaland Forum

President Bola Tinubu and Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre of Saint Lucia have formally agreed to establish diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the Caribbean island nation, News360 Nigeria reports.

This development was reached during President Tinubu’s courtesy visit to the Prime Minister’s official residence in Castries, marking the second day of his state visit to Saint Lucia.

While addressing his host, President Tinubu described the people of Saint Lucia as valued friends and brothers, noting the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties shared between Africa and the Caribbean.

He stressed the need to strengthen cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, tourism, education, and culture.

“Our two nations are bound by history, culture, and common aspirations. We are determined to nurture and expand this relationship,” Tinubu said, according to a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

He further described the growing relationship as a bridge connecting Africa and the Caribbean, which would help deepen economic partnerships and foster mutual understanding.

President Tinubu also pledged Nigeria’s willingness to collaborate with Saint Lucia on global issues such as climate change, disaster management, and sustainable development.

He equally reiterated Nigeria’s support for the concerns of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) at international fora.

On his part, Prime Minister Pierre welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism about the future of the partnership.

He acknowledged the historical links between both countries, particularly highlighting Saint Lucian-born Sir Darnley Alexander, who once served as Nigeria’s Chief Justice from 1975 to 1979.

Pierre identified several priority areas for collaboration, including tourism, health, education, agriculture, and infrastructure development.

He emphasised the cultural similarities between both nations and cited the global recognition of Saint Lucia’s creative industry through platforms like the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival.

“There is incredible potential for people-to-people exchange,” Pierre said, adding that Saint Lucia was eager to share its expertise in cultural festivals with Nigeria as the West African country expands its global entertainment footprint.

The Prime Minister praised Nigeria’s achievements in education, noting his government’s plan to ensure every household in Saint Lucia produces at least one university graduate.

He also called for stronger South-South cooperation, citing growing uncertainties in international alliances.

President Tinubu also met with Saint Lucia’s Governor-General Cyril Charles at Government House, where they discussed matters of Commonwealth cooperation, including joint efforts to address climate change and socioeconomic challenges.

Tinubu assured that Nigeria remained committed to supporting smaller nations, promising to explore new opportunities for trade and economic cooperation, particularly in agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing.

The visit to Saint Lucia is part of President Tinubu’s broader diplomatic tour aimed at deepening Nigeria’s engagement with countries in the Caribbean and South America.

Willy2025:
I thought I saw Sowore said he was lying on hospital bed

muykem:
Great move by the president. We need more friends at this point than ever.

sheguy:
This man is best Nigeria president. When you talk about international relationship, I give it to him and Nigerians will celebrate you soon for the selfless service sir.

Willy2025:
I thought I saw Sowore said he was lying on a hospital bed and that the trip was a camouflage for medical operation . They had better get used to the plain truth. Asiwaju is your president till 2031. Thereafter, ATIKU @90 then.

sheguy:
This man is best Nigeria president. When you talk about international relationship, I give it to him and Nigerians will celebrate you soon for the selfless service sir.

Willy2025:
I thought I saw Sowore said he was lying on a hospital bed and that the trip was a camouflage for medical operation . They had better get used to the plain truth. Asiwaju is your president till 2031. Thereafter, any chosen northerner.

DeepSight:
He went to visit a country whose population is not up to that of Surulere.

Lol.

muykem:
Great move by the president. We need more friends at this point than ever.