Nigeria, Saint Lucia to establish formal diplomatic ties as Tinubu meets Prime Minister Pierre

President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria and Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre of Saint Lucia have officially sealed an agreement to establish diplomatic relations, marking a pivotal moment in the bilateral engagement between the two nations.

The accord was reached during President Tinubu’s courtesy visit to Prime Minister Pierre’s official residence in Castries, on the second day of his state visit to the Eastern Caribbean island.

Recognizing the profound historical and cultural ties that bind Africa and the Caribbean, President Tinubu warmly described Saint Lucians as “valued friends and brothers.

” He underscored the critical importance of enhanced cooperation across key areas, including trade, investment, tourism, education, and culture. “Our two nations are bound by history, culture, and common aspirations,” President Tinubu stated, according to his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

“This is a bridge between Africa and the Caribbean—a pathway to deepen economic ties and foster mutual understanding.”

President Tinubu also conveyed Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate with Saint Lucia on pressing global challenges such as climate change, disaster preparedness, and sustainable development. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering support for the concerns of Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Prime Minister Pierre warmly embraced the initiative, drawing attention to their shared history, notably referencing Saint Lucian-born Sir Darnley Alexander, who served as Nigeria’s Chief Justice from 1975 to 1979.

Pierre identified tourism, education, agriculture, health, and infrastructure as prime sectors for collaboration, also noting the global reach of Saint Lucia’s vibrant cultural festivals as an area for mutual benefit.

“There is incredible potential for people-to-people exchange,” Prime Minister Pierre remarked.

“We see value in collaborating with Nigeria as it builds its global entertainment footprint.”

He also lauded Nigeria’s educational advancements, expressing a keen interest in expanding academic partnerships.

Pierre highlighted his government’s ambitious goal for every household in Saint Lucia to have at least one university graduate, viewing Nigeria as a crucial partner in achieving this educational milestone.

Addressing shifts in the global geopolitical landscape, Pierre emphasized the growing necessity for stronger South-South alliances.

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“Countries in the Global South must deepen cooperative ties amid growing uncertainty about international alliances,” he asserted.

Earlier in his visit, President Tinubu met with Governor-General Cyril Charles at the Government House.

Discussions during this meeting centered on areas of Commonwealth cooperation, climate change, and broader socioeconomic development.

President Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to supporting smaller nations and pledged to explore partnerships with Saint Lucia in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.

This visit is a vital component of President Tinubu’s broader diplomatic strategy to deepen Nigeria’s engagement with countries across the Caribbean and South America, reinforcing a shared vision for robust South-South collaboration.