It was a chance meeting which turned out an inspiration.

For Nigerian medical student Bob Chikwem Amadi, what began as a routine work assignment turned into an unforgettable encounter with two world leaders — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria and Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre of Saint Lucia.

Amadi, who is currently completing his medical education at the American International University in Saint Lucia, was part of a service team engaged during President Tinubu’s visit to the  residence of Prime Minister Pierre on the second day of the Nigerian leader’s state visit to the Caribbean nation.

Amadi who hails from Rivers State, has lived in Saint Lucia for a decade and recently concluded the four-year basic phase of his medical studies.

He is now preparing to begin the clinical training component of his programme.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Amadi works part-time as a talent and brand manager with a local catering and entertainment firm, a role that brought him in close proximity to the high-level bilateral meeting.

During the visit, Prime Minister Pierre was informed by his aides that a Nigerian student was among the event staff.

Taking a moment before his official discussions began, the Prime Minister introduced Amadi to President Tinubu.

The Nigerian President, known for his charismatic presence and interest in the Nigerian diaspora, paused to engage the young student, asking his name, background, and progress in his studies.

President Tinubu offered his best wishes and words of encouragement, commending Amadi’s efforts in pursuing his education abroad.

Reflecting on the moment, Amadi described it as deeply inspiring.

“This is an inspiring moment for me. Saint Lucia is an amazing island. I will describe it as a wonderful place. They are a very contented society and things are relatively calm”, he said.

The highlight of the encounter came when Amadi was invited to join both President Tinubu and Prime Minister Pierre for a group photograph — a symbolic and memorable conclusion to an unexpected meeting with two of the most prominent political figures in Africa and the Caribbean.

Amadi also shared his thoughts on the historical and cultural links between Nigeria and Saint Lucia.

“We have always hoped that there are many opportunities between Saint Lucia and Nigeria. We share similar food crops and culture, and the connection is deep”, he noted.

President Tinubu’s ongoing visit to Saint Lucia marks the first leg of a broader diplomatic engagement with the Caribbean and South American regions.

His itinerary includes high-level bilateral talks aimed at strengthening trade, cultural exchange, and diplomatic cooperation between Nigeria and Caribbean nations.