In a heartfelt call for patriotism and integrity, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians living in Saint Lucia to conduct themselves as exemplary ambassadors of their homeland. During a recent engagement with the Nigerian community in the Caribbean nation, the President emphasized the importance of upholding the values, dignity, and reputation of Nigeria, even while living and working abroad.
The meeting, which marked President Tinubu’s second interaction with Nigerians in Saint Lucia, served as both a reassurance of support and a call to unity. The President praised the community for their contributions to the socio-economic development of Saint Lucia and commended them for maintaining strong ties with their Nigerian roots. He reminded them that regardless of where they are in the world, their actions reflect back on the nation they represent.
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“You are Nigeria’s ambassadors, not just in words, but in action. Uphold our values. Show the world the strength and resilience that define our people,” President Tinubu said.
The President acknowledged the numerous challenges faced by Nigerians living in Saint Lucia, particularly the high cost of securing work permits and the lack of a dedicated Nigerian diplomatic mission on the island. These issues, he said, are on the radar of his administration, and diplomatic efforts are underway to resolve them.
“I hear your concerns, especially regarding the high costs and bureaucratic hurdles you face. These are not just your problems—they are our collective concerns as a nation. My administration is committed to working through diplomatic channels to find long-term solutions,” Tinubu assured.
The President also highlighted the strategic importance of maintaining strong bilateral relations with Caribbean nations, including Saint Lucia. He noted that strengthening the Nigerian diaspora network in such regions is essential not only for cultural diplomacy but also for economic collaboration and global influence.
This engagement underscores Tinubu’s broader commitment to the Nigerian diaspora, which he has consistently described as a critical extension of the nation. The administration views the diaspora not only as a source of remittances but also as valuable contributors to Nigeria’s image, innovation, and international relations.
According to Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, who released an official statement on the meeting, President Tinubu’s interaction with the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia was both candid and optimistic.
“Mr. President’s message was clear—Nigeria is watching its sons and daughters abroad, not with scrutiny, but with pride and expectation,” Onanuga noted.
The visit also provided an opportunity for President Tinubu to gather firsthand insights into the needs of Nigerians abroad, which will inform ongoing policy discussions within his administration.
As Nigeria continues to navigate a complex global landscape, such engagements are a reminder of the vital role the diaspora plays in the nation’s development journey. President Tinubu’s call for unity, dignity, and law-abiding conduct serves not only as guidance but as a beacon for Nigerians everywhere.
In his closing remarks, Tinubu encouraged the community to remain hopeful, resilient, and engaged. “Together, we can build a better Nigeria—no matter where we are in the world,” he said.
