The Presidency has defended President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing state visit to Saint Lucia, describing it as a landmark diplomatic and cultural mission aimed at rekindling Nigeria’s ancestral and strategic ties with the Caribbean nation and the wider Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
This statement, signed by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, was issued on Sunday in response to criticisms from some Nigerians, including former presidential candidate Peter Obi, who questioned the timing and purpose of the visit.
Rekindling Ancestral and Economic Bonds
The Presidency emphasized that President Tinubu’s visit is not a vacation but a historic engagement that opens a new chapter of diplomatic, cultural, and economic possibilities between Nigeria and Saint Lucia.
“From the perspective of the Government of Saint Lucia, the visit by the Nigerian leader paves the way for the rekindling of our ancestral bonds,” Onanuga said.
He explained that many Saint Lucians trace their roots to West Africa, especially Nigeria, with immigrants arriving in the mid-19th century who brought cultural and religious practices still alive today.
Saint Lucia serves as the headquarters of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and is the gateway to the 15 CARICOM member states, which together have a combined GDP exceeding $130 billion. The visit aligns with Nigeria’s foreign policy framework based on the “Four D’s”: Democracy, Development, Diaspora, and Demography.
Strengthening Cultural and Diplomatic Relations
The Presidency highlighted Nigeria’s growing cultural influence in the Caribbean, noting the popularity of Nigerian music genres like Afrobeats and Nollywood films in Saint Lucia. The famous Gros Islet Street Party often features Nigerian music, demonstrating Nigeria’s soft power in the region.
Onanuga also recalled historical ties, such as the life of Sir Darnley Alexander, a Saint Lucian who served as Nigeria’s Chief Justice from 1975 to 1979, and other Saint Lucians who contributed to Nigeria’s development.
The visit also supports the African Union’s Sixth Region agenda, which recognizes the African diaspora as a key partner in development.
Responding to Criticism
The Presidency’s statement came after Peter Obi criticized the President’s trip, calling it a “holiday” amid national crises including floods and insecurity. Obi questioned why President Tinubu would travel abroad while Nigerians face such challenges.
In response, the Presidency called Obi’s remarks “misguided, mischievous, and uninformed,” stressing that the visit is a strategic foreign policy move to deepen ties with the Caribbean and boost South-South cooperation.
Planned Activities and Engagements
During the visit, President Tinubu is scheduled to:
- Address a special joint session of Saint Lucia’s Parliament.
- Visit Sir Arthur Lewis Community College to strengthen educational partnerships.
- Meet with the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia during a reception hosted by the Prime Minister.
- Hold a working luncheon with the Heads of Government of OECS to discuss economic cooperation.
The Nigerian delegation includes members of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, who provide professional services to African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries.
Conclusion
President Tinubu’s state visit to Saint Lucia is a significant diplomatic milestone that strengthens historical, cultural, and economic ties between Nigeria and the Caribbean. The Presidency’s defense of the visit highlights its importance beyond politics, focusing on long-term cooperation and shared heritage. Despite criticism, the trip reinforces Nigeria’s role as a leader in South-South relations and showcases its growing global influence.
