Nigeria, Saint Lucia establish diplomatic ties as Tinubu offers visa waivers, scholarships

1 minute read

By Kunle Sanni –

Nigeria and Saint Lucia have officially established diplomatic relations, marking a significant step in strengthening ties between Africa and the Caribbean.

The announcement was made on Monday during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s historic address to a special joint session of Saint Lucia’s bicameral Parliament at the William Jefferson Clinton Ballroom in Gros Islet.

IMG 20250630 WA0048 — President Bola Tinubu with the President of the Senate of Saint Lucia, Alvina Reynolds (to his left), and the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Claudius Francis (right), during a special joint sitting of the Senate and House of Assembly at Sandals Grande, Gros Islet, Saint Lucia, where he addressed the assembly. Monday, June 30, 2025.

Describing the move as “a symbolic bridge,” President Tinubu said the new diplomatic relationship would serve as a gateway to deeper cooperation between Nigeria and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).

“To promote structured collaboration, I propose the creation of a Joint Commission or Political Consultation Agreement,” Tinubu told lawmakers and dignitaries, including heads of government from the OECS.

IMG 20250630 WA0047 — President Bola Tinubu addressing a special joint sitting of the Senate and House of Assembly of Saint Lucia at Sandals Grande, Gros Islet. Monday, June 30, 2025.

As part of Nigeria’s outreach, Tinubu announced plans to offer visa waivers for OECS officials holding diplomatic or official passports and called for reciprocal arrangements to facilitate smoother travel and cooperation.

The President also pledged full scholarships for students from OECS countries, highlighting education as a pathway to greater cultural understanding and long-term collaboration.

Emphasising Nigeria’s readiness to boost economic and development partnerships, Tinubu invited the OECS to tap into Africa’s largest market. He called for expanded trade in agriculture, manufacturing, and services and proposed joint ventures to unlock new economic opportunities.