Gros islet: President Bola Tinubu has announced a scholarship scheme for students from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) set to commence in the next academic year. He made this announcement at a joint press conference with Saint Lucia's Prime Minister, Philip Pierre, highlighting a new chapter of cooperation between Nigeria and the OECS.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the scholarship initiative is part of a broader framework aimed at strengthening people-to-people ties and expanding collaboration in education, trade, and development between Nigeria and the OECS. President Tinubu also revealed plans to introduce visa waivers for holders of diplomatic and official passports from OECS countries, facilitating easier travel and cooperation.
Tinubu emphasized the proximity and potential for cooperation between Africa and the OECS, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to address the joint session of Saint Lucia's Parliament. He underscored the importance of building strong connections to facilitate business and educational opportunities, with a focus on capacity building, agriculture, and food security.
The scholarship programme was developed in collaboration with OECS member states, with a joint implementation committee responsible for overseeing its rollout. This committee will finalize the modalities to ensure beneficiaries begin their studies in Nigeria by the next academic year. Tinubu noted that this initiative represents a commitment to problem-solving and efficient collaboration.
Prime Minister Pierre welcomed the scholarship initiative, recognizing it as a timely gesture of solidarity. He reiterated the expectation that students will commence their studies in Nigeria next academic year, aligning with President Tinubu's directive. Visa facilitation, along with enhancing air connectivity, trade, and tourism, remains a priority for the Nigeria-OECS Joint Committee.
During the joint meeting, discussions also covered the potential for reciprocal visa waivers. Prime Minister Pierre noted that the committee will address all these issues, with a focus on promoting people-to-people exchanges as a first step towards deeper cooperation.
Earlier, President Tinubu addressed a special joint session of Saint Lucia's Senate and House of Assembly, where he outlined his vision for a renewed and dynamic engagement between Nigeria and the OECS.