In a major diplomatic breakthrough, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced that Nigeria will grant visa waivers to holders of diplomatic and official passports from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), signaling a renewed era of Africa-Caribbean collaboration.

The OECS member states include Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Strengthening Historic Bonds Between Africa and the Caribbean

President Tinubu made this historic announcement while addressing a special joint session of the Saint Lucian Senate and House of Assembly at the William Jefferson Clinton Ballroom, Sandals Grande Resort.

The president also proposed the establishment of a Joint Commission or Political Consultation Agreement between Nigeria and the OECS, aimed at formalizing cooperation across sectors, including trade, education, health, climate resilience, and cultural exchange.

“This diplomatic move is a symbolic bridge that will provide a gateway to fostering ties between us,” Tinubu stated.

Key Pillars of Cooperation: Trade, Education, Culture, and More

Tinubu emphasized that Nigeria’s economic reforms since May 2023 are part of a broader effort to build strong international partnerships. With its vast population and natural resources, Nigeria offers a strategic gateway for OECS countries to the African market.

He highlighted:

• Trade and Investment: Nigeria offers a large, diverse economy for potential joint ventures and investment opportunities.
• Education: Full tuition scholarships for OECS students and exchange programs with Nigerian maritime universities.
• Scientific and Health Collaboration: Joint research to tackle shared health challenges and promote climate adaptation.
• Tourism and Culture: Strengthening people-to-people engagement through cultural exchanges and festivals.

“It is essential that we invest in cultural and human exchanges that build mutual understanding from the ground up among our peoples,” the president said.

Call for Reciprocal Visa Waivers and Regional Unity

Tinubu called on OECS nations to reciprocate the visa waiver, allowing easier travel for Nigerian officials. He also questioned why African citizens still need international passports to move within the continent, calling for greater regional integration.

“Together, we can leverage our respective strengths to attract investments, create jobs and foster joint ventures that benefit both our peoples,” he added.

OECS Leaders Embrace New Diplomatic Era

President Tinubu’s visit to Saint Lucia was marked by high-level meetings with Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre and other OECS leaders from Grenada, Dominica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Martin, and Montserrat.

Prime Minister Pierre welcomed the Nigerian delegation with optimism:

“There is an air of enthusiasm and optimism about the future of relations between our countries,” he said.

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He also highlighted Saint Lucia’s global cultural standing through platforms like the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival, expressing interest in cultural collaboration with Nigeria’s thriving music and film industries.

Toward a New Africa-Caribbean Alliance

President Tinubu’s visit, which included a stop at the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College, aligns with Nigeria’s vision to promote South-South cooperation, academic excellence, and diplomatic outreach.

“Let us journey together, united in purpose and fortified by our common heritage. Africa belongs to all of us,” Tinubu said, quoting Marcus Garvey and African proverbs to drive home his message of unity and shared destiny.

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