President Bola Tinubu has declared that his administration has pulled Nigeria’s economy back from the brink of collapse, assuring Nigerians residing in Saint Lucia that significant reforms are stabilising the country and restoring investor confidence.
Speaking during an interactive session with members of the Nigerian community on Wednesday at the Windjammer Resort in Castries, Tinubu revealed that upon assuming office, he inherited a nation on the verge of bankruptcy.
The statement was released on Thursday by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
Tinubu explained, “We inherited a country that was near bankruptcy. But we have been able to rescue the economy. Nigeria has recovered. We have made the smuggling of our oil unattractive. We have stopped chasing foreign exchange papers at the Central Bank of Nigeria.”
While acknowledging that Nigeria’s per capita income remains low, the President emphasised that the government is pursuing policies aimed at fostering inclusive growth and long-term economic stability.
“For the professionals living here, our government will not abandon you. But you must work hard. It is our responsibility to help you succeed,” he added.
The meeting, which included Nigerian professionals, students, and religious leaders in Saint Lucia, was the second such gathering in two days. The first took place on Tuesday evening at the official residence of Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip J. Pierre.
Organised by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, the forum provided an opportunity for the President to engage directly with Nigerians living abroad.
Dabiri-Erewa praised the positive contributions Nigerians are making in Saint Lucia and encouraged the diaspora to maintain strong ties with their homeland.
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“Nigeria is proud of what you contribute to Saint Lucia,” she said, expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for meeting with the community.
During the session, members of the diaspora raised concerns including the high cost of work permits and the absence of a Nigerian diplomatic mission in Saint Lucia.
Smart Duah, President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation, highlighted that Nigerians currently pay \$2,500 annually for a work permit, describing this as a significant burden.
He called on the President to expedite the establishment of a diplomatic presence in the country.
In response, Tinubu affirmed that diplomatic efforts were already underway to address the issue.
Dr Olugbemisola Ogunlusi, a paediatrician who relocated to Saint Lucia nearly twenty years ago, expressed gratitude for the President’s visit.
She noted that she and her husband, who now heads a federal medical centre in Nigeria, have raised children who also became medical doctors.
“Since you arrived, you have promoted Nigeria more than ever before,” she told the President, wishing him a safe journey home.
