Saint Lucia Confers Knighthood on Nigeria’s President Tinubu for Strengthening Africa-Caribbean Ties

The government of Saint Lucia has awarded its highest national honour—the Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia (KCOSL)—to Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, recognizing his commitment to deepening the historical, cultural, and diplomatic bonds between Africa and the Caribbean.

The official investiture ceremony took place on the evening of Monday, June 30, 2025, at the Government House, Morne Fortune, during a state reception hosted in honour of President Tinubu.

The honour was formally conferred by Governor-General Errol Charles, marking the first time the prestigious title has been awarded to a Nigerian Head of State.

With the award, the Nigerian leader will now be officially addressed as “Sir Bola Ahmed Tinubu, KCOSL (Hon.), President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

“I Came Here as a President, I’m Leaving as a Knight”

A visibly moved President Tinubu expressed profound gratitude to the Saint Lucian government and people, describing the moment as deeply symbolic of a shared past and a renewed future.

“I am here as one of you representing that historical journey taken by our forebears, the history that we cannot reverse, but are prepared for progressive understanding,” he said.
“I am greatly honoured, on behalf of my country, on behalf of nearly 220 million people in Nigeria, to stand before you to thank you very much. I came here as a president, but I’m leaving as a knight.”

Tinubu praised the hospitality of his hosts, calling the experience “thrilling and exciting.”

“It cannot be more thrilling, more exciting, and welcoming than that. You are great people. I thank the Prime Minister and His Excellency the Governor-General for seeing me worthy of this honour and knighthood.”

President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing cooperation between Nigeria and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) in areas including trade, culture, and education.

“I addressed the Parliament earlier today. I made some promises to enhance our connectivity and business opportunities, foster creativity in our future together, and help us overcome the legacy of our forebears’ years of separation,” Tinubu stated.

“To see that we can resume cultural exchanges and believe in economic development is a responsibility that we must live up to.”

He also underscored the shared values and resilience of African and Caribbean peoples: “The black race is not lazy. We are hardworking and honest people. Given the opportunity, we can excel. We believe life itself has given us what we need. We have no cause to regret, and we have every reason to celebrate life, opportunity, and excellence.

“I come from a country where the people are incredibly hardworking and democratic in every aspect. We are good at agriculture and trading.”

Governor-General Errol Charles, while conferring the honour, described Tinubu’s visit as historic and emotionally significant for Saint Lucia, particularly given its deep ancestral ties to Africa.

“Today is a historic occasion for us, particularly for our many Saint Lucian brothers and sisters whose ancestors were rudely torn from their tribal homelands in Africa and deposited on these shores centuries ago,” he said.
“Deeper than the bonds of friendship is that kindred spirit transplanted generations ago in these islands, that elevates your visit to the status of a visiting relative, with all the accompanying joy and goodness that such rare events allow.”

Charles noted that the award not only celebrates President Tinubu’s leadership but also affirms Saint Lucia’s appreciation for his role in promoting mutual development across key areas such as climate resilience, healthcare, trade, education, and cultural exchange.

“This honour acknowledges your leadership and the strengthening of ties between Africa and the Caribbean… and reflects a shared vision for global South solidarity.”

Also speaking at the event, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre praised Tinubu’s acceptance of the honour and described it as a catalyst for stronger Africa-Caribbean relations.

“For Saint Lucia and the OECS, part of our heritage lies in Africa, and we are proud of it. We want to develop it and ensure that the people of these two regions get closer together,” he said.

“We are just eight hours away from Africa. We have to establish links so that our people can know what is happening in the motherland, and we can enjoy the fruits of what Africa has produced.”

“So, Excellency, I want to thank you again. I want to tell you that we are very appreciative and look forward to strengthening the bonds of friendship between the people of Nigeria, the people of Saint Lucia, and the people of the OECS.”