Tinubu Proposes Visa Waivers, Scholarships, and Trade Deals as Nigeria Strengthens Ties with Eastern Caribbean States

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has proposed a series of major diplomatic and economic initiatives as Nigeria formally established diplomatic relations with Saint Lucia and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).

Speaking during a joint session of the Saint Lucian Senate and House of Assembly on Monday, June 30, 2025, Tinubu outlined a comprehensive vision for strengthening ties between Nigeria and the Eastern Caribbean.

The event, held at the William Jefferson Clinton Ballroom, Sandals Grande, Gros Islet, marked a significant milestone in Pan-African diplomacy and Black global solidarity, drawing attendance from leaders across OECS member states including Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, Montserrat, Saint Martin, and Saint Vincent.

Key Proposals and Announcements by President Tinubu

Visa Waivers

Tinubu announced Nigeria’s readiness to grant visa waivers to OECS diplomatic and official passport holders, urging a reciprocal arrangement to enable smoother movement of officials and foster institutional cooperation between the regions.

“I respectfully urge a reciprocal gesture to enable smoother movement of officials and foster closer institutional cooperation,” he said.

Full Scholarships and Cultural Exchange

To boost educational and cultural exchange, Tinubu offered full Nigerian government scholarships to students from OECS countries.

“These scholarships are designed to foster deeper cultural understanding and build future generations of leaders that span both our regions,” he stated.

Joint Commission & Political Consultation Agreement

Tinubu proposed establishing a Joint Commission or Political Consultation Agreement between Nigeria and OECS to drive strategic collaboration in trade, education, diplomacy, and climate action.

Technical Aid Corps Extension

Nigeria’s Technical Aid Corps programme, which deploys Nigerian professionals abroad, will now be extended to OECS nations. This includes teachers, engineers, and healthcare professionals who will assist with capacity-building across the region.

Economic Partnerships and Investment Opportunities

President Tinubu invited OECS member states to explore trade and investment in Nigeria’s vast market—the largest in Africa. He emphasized mutual partnerships in agriculture, manufacturing, services, and job-creating joint ventures.

“Nigeria’s vast natural resources and position as the largest market in Africa present significant opportunities for the OECS,” Tinubu noted.

He also called for joint ventures in the blue economy, including collaborations between maritime universities, and scientific research partnerships.

Climate Resilience and Sustainable Development

Recognizing the vulnerability of island nations to climate change, Tinubu proposed:

• Joint research on disaster preparedness

• Sustainable agriculture initiatives

• Collaboration on climate-induced migration

• Sharing of data on climate impacts and adaptation strategies

“By sharing research findings, we can deepen our understanding and enhance our collective resilience,” he emphasized.

Pan-Africanism and Global Black Solidarity

Reaffirming Nigeria’s Afrocentric foreign policy, Tinubu underscored Nigeria’s long-standing role in Pan-African leadership and its global advocacy for the Black race.

“Nigeria has a rich history of enduring contributions to the advancement of the Black race,” he said, referencing the country’s foundational role in the African Union and leadership in global Black liberation movements.

He closed with powerful words from Marcus Garvey and an African proverb, urging unity and shared progress:

“Get organised and you will compel the world to respect you.”
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

Significance of the Visit

This historic diplomatic visit signifies Nigeria’s intent to strengthen South-South cooperation, expand its diplomatic influence in the Caribbean, and champion shared Black heritage and economic empowerment across continents.

The event was attended by over 300 guests, including diplomats, officials, and members of the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia, highlighting growing interest in a Nigeria-OECS alliance built on mutual respect, cultural ties, and shared ambitions for the future.