Castries: President Bola Tinubu has extended an invitation to the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to invest in Nigeria, promoting the country as a prime entry point into Africa’s expansive market.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, President Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s potential as a gateway for the island nations to expand their trade, partnerships, and investments. He addressed this opportunity during a special joint session of the Senate and House of Assembly in Saint Lucia. Presidential Spokesperson Mr. Bayo Onanuga released a statement detailing Tinubu’s call for collaboration in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and services.
President Tinubu, who assumed office in May 2023, emphasized his administration’s commitment to economic, political, and social reforms aimed at sustainable growth. He expressed Nigeria’s readiness to deepen cooperation with the OECS in areas such as trade, investment, health, culture, education, and climate resilience. Highlighting Nigeria’s natural resources and large consumer base, Tinubu urged strategic partnerships and joint ventures that would benefit both regions.
In a significant diplomatic move, Tinubu announced the establishment of formal diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Saint Lucia, describing it as a “symbolic bridge” for deeper engagement. He proposed creating a Joint Commission or Political Consultation Agreement to facilitate future cooperation. Further, to strengthen cultural links, Tinubu offered full scholarships to OECS students for studies in Nigeria and advocated for visa waivers for OECS diplomatic and official passport holders.
Tinubu underscored the shared historical and cultural bonds between Nigeria and Caribbean nations, rooted in African heritage and Pan-African ideals. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to expanding ties with the OECS, describing it as a “cherished partner” in Africa’s broader global engagement.
Proposing a collaboration between maritime universities and extending Nigeria’s Technical Aid Corps (TAC) to OECS countries, Tinubu emphasized educational exchange programs to foster mutual understanding and academic collaboration. He also called for joint research on disaster preparedness, sustainable agriculture, and adaptation strategies to address climate challenges.
President Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s Afrocentric foreign policy, its leadership in the Pan-African movement, and its commitment to global Black solidarity. He highlighted Nigeria’s cultural richness, noting its influence in music, fashion, cuisine, Nollywood, and literature. Over 300 attendees, including diplomats, officials, and members of the Nigerian community, were present for Tinubu’s address.
