President Tinubu who was accompanied by Saint Lucian Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre during a joint press conference in Gros Islet on Monday , says the programme has already commenced and will be implemented under a joint committee between Nigeria and OECS member states.
“The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States is very close to us in Africa. We are moving forward to facilitate business and education opportunities, capacity building, and explore other areas such as agriculture and food security. We won’t drop the ball,” Tinubu assured
The initiative according to him, is part of a broader framework to deepen cooperation in education, trade, and development.
He also confirmed that discussions were underway on granting visa waivers to holders of diplomatic and official passports from OECS countries
Tinubu however dismissed concerns about challenges in bilateral cooperation, saying such challenges should be seen as problems solving
“I don’t look at difficulties. I look at problem-solving. If we move on a straight line, we get our goal achieved, and there will be no problems" he stated
Prime Minister Pierre welcomed the scholarship scheme, describing it as “a timely and practical expression of solidarity.”
He added that visa facilitation, air connectivity, and tourism were also prioritised during high-level discussions with President Tinubu.
“We expect students to begin their studies in Nigeria in the next academic year. We have formed a joint committee to address education, trade, and travel issues, and the people-to-people exchange will be key,” Pierre said
Earlier, Tinubu addressed a special joint sitting of Saint Lucia’s Parliament, where he outlined his vision for a renewed partnership between Nigeria and the Caribbean bloc.
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