President Bola Tinubu has approved a new scholarship scheme for students from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to study in Nigerian universities, beginning from the next academic year.
Speaking at a joint press conference in Gros Islet on Monday alongside Saint Lucian Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, President Tinubu said the programme has already commenced and would be implemented under 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.
The initiative, he explained, is part of a broader framework to deepen cooperation in education, trade, and development.
He also confirmed that discussions were underway on granting visa waivers to holders of diplomatic and official passports from OECS countries.
Responding to concerns about challenges in bilateral cooperation, Tinubu said, “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, describing it as “a timely and practical expression of solidarity.”
He added that visa facilitation, air connectivity, and tourism were also prioritised during high-level discussions with President Tinubu.
“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, Tinubu addressed a special joint sitting of Saint Lucia’s Parliament, where he outlined his vision for a renewed partnership between Nigeria and the Caribbean bloc.
