Tinubu to Nigerians in Saint Lucia: Uphold Nigeria’s Image

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians living in Saint Lucia to remain law-abiding and serve as positive representatives of their homeland.

Speaking during a town hall meeting at the Windjammer Resort in Castries, he urged the community to uphold Nigeria’s dignity, assuring them that their concerns were being heard.

“Continue to be of good behaviour. Don’t break the law. You are our ambassadors,” Tinubu told the gathering, which included professionals, students, and clergy members.

The event was organized by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and chaired by Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa. She praised the diaspora community for their achievements and encouraged them not to forget their roots. “Nigeria is proud of your contributions. Remember home,” she said.

Key issues raised included the hefty $2,500 annual work permit fee and the lack of a Nigerian diplomatic mission on the island. Mr. Smart Okeudili Duah, President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) in Saint Lucia, appealed for urgent intervention in these matters.

In response, Tinubu assured that his administration would take steps to address these concerns through diplomatic channels. “You are not forgotten. Our government will support you, but you must work hard,” he emphasized.

Father Festus Iwuagwu, a Nigerian priest in Saint Lucia, commended the President’s outreach, noting the strong turnout as evidence of the diaspora’s respect and admiration. Dr. Olugbemisola Ogunlusi, a paediatrician who has lived in Saint Lucia for nearly two decades, also expressed appreciation and shared how her husband has returned to serve in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.

Reflecting on his own journey as a student in the U.S., Tinubu encouraged persistence and focus: “Life is about consistency and hard work. Stay dedicated.”

Addressing economic realities, the President admitted that his administration inherited a country on the brink of bankruptcy but insisted that progress has been made. “We’ve rescued the economy.

Smuggling is down. We’ve stopped the reckless forex chase at the Central Bank,” he said, while acknowledging that per capita income remains low. He promised continued reforms aimed at improving living standards for all Nigerians.

The session ended on a celebratory note, with a young Nigerian medical student, Doris, presenting Tinubu with a hand-painted portrait symbolizing hope, connection, and pride in the homeland.

President Tinubu’s state visit to Saint Lucia has been marked by cultural engagement, strong diplomatic signals, and renewed commitment to Nigeria’s diaspora, capped by his recent investiture with Saint Lucia’s highest national honour.