‘Remain good ambassadors’ – Tinubu urges Nigerians in Saint Lucia

By Kunle Sanni –

President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians living in Saint Lucia to be law-abiding and continue serving as exemplary citizens, assuring them that his administration is committed to addressing their concerns through diplomatic channels.

Tinubu gave the charge during two separate interactive sessions with the Nigerian community in the Caribbean nation—first on Tuesday night at the official residence of Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip J. Pierre, and again on Wednesday at the Windjammer Resort, where he stayed during his state visit.

The meetings were facilitated by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), chaired by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, who commended Nigerians in Saint Lucia for their contributions to the local economy and urged them to remain connected to their roots.

President Tinubu praised the community for maintaining a positive reputation. “Based on what my hosts have told me, you have conducted yourselves well. I urge you: continue to be of good behaviour. Don’t break the law,” he said.

Reflecting on his own years as a student in the United States, Tinubu underscored the values of hard work, consistency, and integrity. “Life is about working hard and being consistent,” he said. “For the professionals living here, our government will not abandon you. But you must work hard. It is our job to help you succeed.”

President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) in Saint Lucia, Smart Okeudili Duah, raised concerns over the high annual work permit fee of $2,500 and appealed for the establishment of a Nigerian diplomatic mission in the country—a request Tinubu confirmed is under consideration.

A Nigerian Catholic priest based in Saint Lucia, Father Festus Iwuagwu, noted that the large turnout at the meetings reflected the respect and admiration Nigerians have for the President.

Paediatrician Dr. Olugbemisola Ogunlusi, who has lived in Saint Lucia for 19 years, also expressed gratitude for the visit. “Since you arrived, you have propagated Nigeria more than we ever thought,” she said.