Tinubu Strengthens Nigeria-Caribbean Ties with New Student Scholarship Program
By Sholeye Ayodele, Lagos
President Bola Tinubu has approved a new scholarship program for students from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to pursue higher education in Nigerian universities, starting from the next academic year.
At a joint press briefing held in Gros Islet on Monday with Saint Lucian Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, President Tinubu announced that the initiative is already in motion and will be managed through a joint committee formed by Nigeria and OECS member nations.
“The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States shares close ties with us in Africa. We are taking steps to enhance collaboration in areas like education, business, agriculture, food security, and capacity development. We are committed and will not lose momentum,” Tinubu stated.
He emphasized that the scholarship scheme is part of a wider strategy aimed at strengthening cooperation in education, trade, and development between Nigeria and the Caribbean region.
Additionally, Tinubu revealed that discussions were ongoing regarding the introduction of visa waivers for holders of diplomatic and official passports from OECS countries. Addressing potential obstacles in bilateral relations, he said, “I don’t focus on difficulties. I focus on finding solutions. If we stay on track, we can meet our goals without any issues.”
Prime Minister Pierre expressed appreciation for the scholarship initiative, calling it “a timely and practical demonstration of solidarity.”
He noted that other key areas, including visa processing, air connectivity, and tourism, were discussed during high-level meetings with Tinubu. “We expect students to begin their academic journey in Nigeria by the next school year. A joint committee has been established to work on education, trade, and travel matters, with people-to-people exchange being central to our collaboration,” Pierre added.
Earlier in the day, President Tinubu addressed a special joint session of Saint Lucia’s Parliament, where he presented his vision for revitalizing and deepening Nigeria’s partnership with the Caribbean bloc.
Tinubu Strengthens Nigeria-Caribbean Ties with New Student Scholarship Program
