Castries: President Bola Tinubu has pledged to address the challenges facing Nigerians in Saint Lucia and other parts of the world through diplomatic engagement. He made the pledge during an interactive session with members of the Nigerian community in Castries, the capital of Saint Lucia.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event was organised by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), chaired by Abike Dabiri-Erewa. A statement on the event, issued by Presidential Spokesperson Mr. Bayo Onanuga, was released to newsmen in Abuja. President Tinubu urged Nigerians living in Saint Lucia to remain law-abiding and serve as good ambassadors of the country, emphasizing the importance of hard work and consistency.
Drawing from his experience as a student in the U.S. five decades ago, Tinubu assured the community of government support, stating that the government will not abandon professionals living abroad. He highlighted efforts by his administration to stabilize Nigeria’s economy, citing improvements in oil revenue management and foreign exchange policy.
Dabiri-Erewa praised the contributions of Nigerians in Saint Lucia and encouraged them to stay connected to their homeland. Mr. Smart Duah, President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO), raised concerns about an annual work permit fee as a challenge faced by the community.
Father Festus Iwuagwu, a Nigerian priest in Saint Lucia, noted the community’s respect and affection for the President, as evidenced by the large turnout. Dr. Olugbemisola Ogunlusi, a paediatrician, welcomed the President and shared her story of raising two doctors in Saint Lucia. Her husband has since returned to Nigeria, where he now serves as Chief Medical Director at a new federal medical centre.
As a token of appreciation, the Nigerian community presented President Tinubu with a portrait made by Doris, a medical student and talented artist.