President Bola Tinubu has approved a new scholarship scheme that will allow students from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to study in Nigerian universities, starting from the next academic year.
Speaking at a joint press conference in Gros Islet on Monday with Saint Lucian Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, President Tinubu confirmed that the program has already begun and will be implemented by a joint committee between Nigeria and OECS member states.
“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,” Tinubu said.
He explained that the initiative is part of a broader plan to deepen cooperation in education, trade, and development.
Tinubu also confirmed ongoing discussions to grant visa waivers to holders of diplomatic and official passports from OECS countries.3 Responding to questions about challenges in bilateral cooperation, he stated, “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.”
Prime Minister Pierre welcomed the scholarship scheme, calling it “a timely and practical expression of solidarity.” He added that high-level discussions with President Tinubu also prioritized 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 shared his vision for a renewed partnership between Nigeria and the Caribbean bloc.5
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