“The Nigerians paid for their transportation, accommodation, and security arrangements. The only expenses covered by the Government of Saint Lucia were for local hospitality and entertainment, which are standard diplomatic courtesies,” Pierre explained.

“A final cost breakdown will be shared with the public once the accounting process is complete, but I can assure you the Saint Lucian share of the total cost was minimal.”

The Nigerian President’s visit was part of a broader thrust by the Caribbean to enhance bilateral relations with African nations, a policy direction welcomed by regional leaders and cultural groups alike.

Pierre addressed the nation following the conclusion of the historic state visit of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing the event as a milestone for Caribbean-African diplomacy and a catalyst for tangible development benefits across the region.

The Prime Minister emphasised that the visit, which included a high-level meeting with heads of government from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), was not merely ceremonial but yielded practical outcomes that will directly benefit Saint Lucians and the wider Caribbean.

Among the key commitments made by President Tinubu were full tuition scholarships for OECS students to study in Nigeria, the deployment of Nigerian professionals through the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, and visa waivers for OECS citizens holding diplomatic and official passports. President Tinubu also proposed the formation of a Nigeria-OECS Joint Commission to further guide and expand cooperation between the two regions.

“This was a productive working session that led to clear, practical outcomes. It marked a significant step forward in strengthening South-South cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean: two regions with shared histories and aligned development goals.”

Additional areas of collaboration discussed included joint ventures in education, maritime training, scientific research, climate resilience, tourism marketing, and expanding business linkages between Nigerian investors and OECS entrepreneurs.

Specific proposals under consideration include reviving the Nigeria-OECS medical partnership, youth exchange programmes focused on technology and innovation, and enhancing maritime and air connectivity, including the reintroduction of the Black Star Line concept.