For the second consecutive day, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu engaged with Nigerians living in Saint Lucia, assuring them of his administration’s commitment to resolving challenges they face through diplomatic means.
On Tuesday evening, President Tinubu met with the Nigerian community at the official residence of Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip J. Pierre. He continued the interaction on Wednesday at Windjammer Resort, where he is lodged during his state visit to the Caribbean nation.
The meetings were facilitated by the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, and brought together Nigerian professionals, students, and community leaders residing in Saint Lucia.
Addressing the gathering, President Tinubu encouraged the diaspora community to uphold strong values and maintain a positive image.
“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.”
He reiterated his administration’s intention to diplomatically address issues raised by the community, including the high cost of work permits and the absence of a Nigerian diplomatic mission on the island.
Speaking on national progress, President Tinubu noted:
“We inherited a country that was near bankruptcy. But we have been able to rescue the economy. Nigeria has recovered. We’ve made oil smuggling unattractive and ended the reckless pursuit of forex at the Central Bank.”
The President acknowledged the country’s low per capita income but assured that efforts are underway to improve economic indicators and opportunities.
During the session, Smart Okeudili Duah, President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) in Saint Lucia, appealed for the urgent establishment of a Nigerian embassy or consular presence. President Tinubu confirmed that this is already in motion.
Also addressing the President, Dr. Olugbemisola Ogunlusi, a paediatrician who migrated to Saint Lucia 19 years ago, praised the President’s visit and highlighted the positive impact Nigerians are making locally.
“Since you arrived, you’ve projected Nigeria more than we ever expected,” she said. Dr. Ogunlusi and her husband, a former Chief Medical Director of a federal medical centre, have raised a new generation of doctors in Saint Lucia.
Father Festus Iwuagwu, a Catholic priest, described the turnout as a reflection of the community’s admiration and respect for President Tinubu.
As the event concluded, a young medical student and artist named Doris presented the President with a portrait, which he graciously accepted.
President Tinubu encouraged Nigerians in Saint Lucia to remain law-abiding and to represent the country with pride:
“My plea to you all: continue to be of good behaviour, don’t break the law,” he said, recalling his own journey as a student in the United States more than 50 years ago. “Focus, work hard, and be good ambassadors of Nigeria.”
Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa thanked President Tinubu for the visit and commended Nigerians in Saint Lucia for their positive contributions, expressing hope they would continue to connect with home.
