In a historic diplomatic milestone, President Bola Tinubu has formally announced the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Saint Lucia, describing the move as a “symbolic bridge that will provide a gateway in fostering closer ties between us.”
The announcement was made on Monday, June 30, 2025, during a special joint session of the Senate and House of Assembly of Saint Lucia at the William Jefferson Clinton Ballroom, Sandals Grande, Gros Islet. Tinubu’s visit is part of a broader Caribbean tour aimed at deepening Nigeria’s engagement with the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
Key highlights of the address include:
- Visa Waivers: Tinubu proposed visa waivers for holders of diplomatic and official passports from OECS countries, urging reciprocal gestures to ease official travel and institutional cooperation.
- Scholarship Programme: He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to offering full scholarships to OECS students to study in Nigerian universities, promoting cultural exchange and educational diplomacy.
- Joint Commission Proposal: The president suggested the creation of a Joint Commission or Political Consultation Agreement to structure bilateral cooperation across sectors like trade, education, health, and climate resilience.
- Pan-African Solidarity: Tinubu emphasized shared African heritage and the legacy of resilience born from historical ties, calling the new relationship a testament to Pan-African ideals.
The event was attended by leaders from across the Caribbean, including the Prime Ministers of Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Vincent, and others. The move is widely seen as a strategic step to strengthen Africa–Caribbean relations and expand Nigeria’s global diplomatic footprint.
