In a bold diplomatic move, President Bola Tinubu has approved visa waivers for holders of diplomatic and official passports from all seven member countries of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), including Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent & the Grenadines .
President Tinubu revealed this initiative during a joint session of the Saint Lucian Senate and House of Assembly in Castries. He also proposed forging a formal Joint Commission or Political Consultation Agreement with the OECS to boost cooperation across trade, investment, education, culture, health, and climate resilience .
Underlining the move as symbolic of Nigeria’s commitment to building transatlantic bridges, Tinubu noted that formal diplomatic relations have already been established with Saint Lucia. He emphasized Nigeria’s economic reforms since May 2023 and the nation’s readiness to partner with the Caribbean on investment, joint ventures, and academic exchange—particularly between maritime universities .
Tinubu also pledged to expand the Technical Aide Corps to OECS nations, offering professional support to strengthen climate adaptation, agriculture, and health systems. Additionally, full scholarships will be made available to OECS students, reinforcing a broader strategy of cultural and people-to-people connection .
Hosted by Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre and OECS heads in Saint Lucia, the President described the region as “valued friends and brothers,” stressing that joint efforts would pave the way for deeper economic and cultural integration. The visit marks the first formal step in broadening Nigeria-Caribbean diplomatic ties .
