President Bola Tinubu and Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre of Saint Lucia have agreed to initiate formal diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the Caribbean nation.

The agreement was reached during President Tinubu’s courtesy visit to Prime Minister Pierre’s official residence in Castries, marking the second day of his state visit to Saint Lucia.

During their meeting, President Tinubu acknowledged the historical and cultural connections between Africa and the Caribbean and described Saint Lucians as “valued friends and brothers”.

He emphasised the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, tourism, education, and culture.

“Our two nations are bound by history, culture, and common aspirations. We are determined to nurture and expand this relationship,” Tinubu said in a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser (Information & Strategy).

“This is a bridge between Africa and the Caribbean—a pathway to deepen economic ties and foster mutual understanding.”

He further stated that Nigeria is ready to collaborate with Saint Lucia on global issues of shared interest, including climate change, disaster preparedness, and sustainable development financing. Tinubu also reiterated Nigeria’s support for the concerns of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) on the international stage.

In his remarks, Prime Minister Pierre welcomed the discussions and expressed optimism about the prospects for stronger ties between both nations. He highlighted the historical links between Saint Lucia and Nigeria, referencing the contribution of Saint Lucian-born Sir Darnley Alexander, who served as Nigeria’s Chief Justice from 1975 to 1979.

Pierre identified several areas for potential collaboration, including tourism, education, agriculture, health, and infrastructure. He noted cultural similarities and highlighted the global recognition of Saint Lucia’s creative industry through platforms like the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival.

“There is an incredible potential for people-to-people exchange,” he said. “Saint Lucia is now a global centre for cultural festivals, and we see value in sharing with Nigeria as it builds its global entertainment footprint.”

The Prime Minister praised Nigeria’s achievements in higher education and pointed to a shared interest in expanding academic partnerships.

He noted that his government aims to ensure that each household in Saint Lucia has at least one university graduate.

He also addressed shifting global dynamics and expressed the need for stronger South-South cooperation. “There is a growing uncertainty about the integrity of friendships and alliances in international relationships. Countries in the Global South must create and deepen cooperative ties,” he said.

President Tinubu also paid a visit to Governor-General Cyril Charles at the Government House, where discussions focused on Commonwealth cooperation, including joint action on climate change and socioeconomic challenges.

The President affirmed Nigeria’s commitment to supporting smaller states and said his administration would explore opportunities to enhance trade and economic partnerships with Saint Lucia, particularly in agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing.

The visit is part of President Tinubu’s diplomatic tour aimed at deepening Nigeria’s engagement with countries in the Caribbean and South America.