Tinubu, Saint Lucia's PM Agree to Establish Formal Diplomatic Ties

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre of Saint Lucia have agreed to establish formal diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the Caribbean island nation.

The two leaders reached the understanding during President Tinubu’s courtesy visit to the Prime Minister’s official residence in Castries on the second day of his State Visit to Saint Lucia.

Tinubu said the initiative reflects a shared desire to “advance prosperity, and solidarity, and sustainable development,” adding that Nigeria is committed to working with Saint Lucia on global issues of mutual concern such as climate change, disaster response, and development financing.

He affirmed Nigeria’s support for the priorities of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in international discussions.

Prime Minister Pierre, in response, welcomed the productive engagements between both countries’ foreign ministers and voiced optimism about the future of bilateral ties.

The agreement between the two leaders was contained in a statement by Tinubu’s media aide, Bayo Onanuga.

Recalling the historical connection between the two nations, the Prime Minister referenced the contribution of Saint Lucian-born Sir Darnley Alexander, who served as Nigeria’s fourth Chief Justice from 1975 to 1979.

He identified key areas for collaboration including agriculture, tourism, health, education, and infrastructure, while highlighting the cultural and creative potential between both nations.

Pierre also praised Nigeria’s record in higher education and reiterated his government’s commitment to achieving a university graduate in every household. He pointed to Nigeria’s experience as valuable in shaping Saint Lucia’s educational aspirations.

As part of the visit, President Tinubu is expected to tour the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College, named after Saint Lucia’s Nobel Laureate in Economics.

Source: X | FredrickNwabufo