President Bola Tinubu has announced a new scholarship programme for students from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to pursue their education in Nigerian universities, starting from the next academic year.
During a joint press conference in Gros Islet on Monday with Saint Lucian Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, Tinubu confirmed that the programme is already underway and will be managed through a collaborative committee involving Nigeria and OECS member countries.
“The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States is very close to us in Africa. We are moving forward to facilitate business and education opportunities, capacity building, and explore other areas such as agriculture and food security. We won’t drop the ball,” the President stated.
He further explained that the scholarship initiative is part of a wider plan to strengthen cooperation in education, trade, and development. Tinubu also mentioned ongoing discussions to introduce visa waivers for diplomatic and official passport holders from OECS nations.
“I don’t look at difficulties. I look at problem-solving. If we move on a straight line, we get our goal achieved, and there will be no problems,” Tinubu said in response to concerns about obstacles in bilateral relations.
Prime Minister Pierre welcomed the initiative, describing it as “a timely and practical expression of solidarity.” He noted that the programme would be accompanied by efforts to enhance visa facilitation, air connectivity, and tourism.
“We expect students to begin their studies in Nigeria in the next academic year. We have formed a joint committee to address education, trade, and travel issues, and the people-to-people exchange will be key,” Pierre said.
Earlier, President Tinubu addressed a special joint sitting of Saint Lucia’s Parliament, where he laid out a vision for revitalised collaboration between Nigeria and the Caribbean region.
What you should know
This scholarship marks a significant step in Nigeria’s diplomatic outreach to the Caribbean, positioning education as a tool for deeper cultural and economic integration between Africa and OECS nations.
