President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians living in Saint Lucia to continue to be law-abiding and serve as worthy ambassadors of their country.
He made this appeal during his ongoing state visit to the Caribbean nation, where he met with members of the Nigerian community for the second consecutive day.
Addressing the gathering yesterday in the Windjammer Resort, Mr Tinubu commended Nigerians in Saint Lucia for their positive reputation and contributions to the local society.
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He urged them to maintain good character and avoid any actions that could bring disrepute to Nigeria.
“My plea to you all: continue to be of good behaviour; don’t break the law,” he said.
The President, who had earlier interacted with the Nigerian community on Tuesday at the official residence of Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip Pierre, assured them of his government’s support and promised to address some of their concerns through diplomatic channels.
The meeting, organised by the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, brought together Nigerian professionals, students, and business people residing in Saint Lucia.
Ms Dabiri-Erewa commended the diaspora community for their achievements and expressed hope that they would continue to maintain strong ties with Nigeria.
Smart Okeudili Duah, President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) in Saint Lucia, highlighted the challenges faced by Nigerians in the country, particularly the high cost of work permits, which currently stands at $2,500 annually.
He also appealed for the establishment of a Nigerian diplomatic mission in Saint Lucia, a request Mr Tinubu confirmed is already in progress.
Father Festus Iwuagwu, a Nigerian priest in Saint Lucia, expressed delight at the President’s visit, noting the impressive turnout as a sign of the respect Nigerians have for Tinubu.
Also speaking at the event, Olugbemisola Ogunlusi, a paediatrician who migrated to Saint Lucia 19 years ago, expressed appreciation for the President’s engagement with the Nigerian community.
She praised his efforts in promoting Nigeria’s image abroad and wished him a safe return home.
Reflecting on his personal experience as a student in the United States over five decades ago, Mr Tinubu encouraged Nigerians in the diaspora to remain dedicated and resilient in their pursuits.
“Life is about working hard and being consistent. For the professionals living here, our government will not abandon you. But you must work hard. It is our job to help you succeed,” he assured.
Mr Tinubu also briefed the audience on his administration’s economic reforms aimed at stabilising Nigeria’s economy.
He said his government inherited a nation on the brink of bankruptcy but has since taken decisive steps to revive it.
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“We have made the smuggling of our oil unattractive. We have stopped chasing forex papers at the Central Bank of Nigeria. Nigeria has recovered,” he declared.
The President acknowledged that Nigeria’s per capita income remains low but stressed that his government is working to improve living standards.
In a show of appreciation, the Nigerian community presented Mr Tinubu with a portrait crafted by Doris, a medical student and talented artist.
