PRESIDENT TINUBU ADDRESSES SAINT LUCIA’S PARLIAMENT, CALLS FOR STRONGER AFRICA-CARIBBEAN TIES
By Aishat Momoh. O.
In a historic diplomatic move, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria addressed a special joint session of the Senate and House of Assembly of Saint Lucia, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening the bond between Africa and the Caribbean.
Speaking in the island nation’s capital during his official visit, President Tinubu emphasized the shared heritage and destiny of Africans and people of African descent across the globe, advocating for unity, organization, and cooperation in pursuit of a “glorious future.”
“My visit to Saint Lucia is in keeping with the ideal of building the bridge between Africa and the Caribbean,” Tinubu said. “It reflects our desire to deepen economic ties, foster mutual cooperation, and strengthen familial bonds rooted in shared history and culture.”
The Nigerian leader called for expanded bilateral relations in areas such as trade, investment, tourism, education, cultural exchange, and consular services. He highlighted Nigeria’s readiness to work collaboratively with Caribbean nations for sustainable development and prosperity.
President Tinubu expressed gratitude to Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, Governor-General Cyril Charles, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), and the people of Saint Lucia for their warm hospitality. He closed his remarks with a gesture of cultural solidarity, saying in the island’s Creole language, “Mèsi anpil”. Thank you very much.
“Nigeria remains committed to working hand in hand with our brothers and sisters in the Caribbean,” the President concluded, marking a renewed chapter in Africa-Caribbean diplomatic engagement.
