President Bola Tinubu has said his administration rescued Nigeria from the edge of economic collapse, telling Nigerians living in Saint Lucia that reforms already in motion are helping to steady the country and attract new investor interest.
During a meeting on Wednesday with Nigerians residing in the Caribbean island, Tinubu noted the tough financial situation he met upon taking office. Speaking at the Windjammer Resort in Castries, he shared how his government has been working to bring Nigeria’s economy back to life.
“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 forex papers at the Central Bank of Nigeria,” Tinubu said.
The President spoke openly about the struggles his administration faced early on, explaining that the country’s low per capita income was a concern. He said his team is working on fresh policies that aim to bring long-term economic strength and benefit everyone, not just a few.
“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 added.
The meeting was part of a two-day engagement with the Nigerian diaspora in Saint Lucia. On Tuesday, a similar session was held at the residence of Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre. Both events were put together by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chair of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission.
Dabiri-Erewa praised the work Nigerians are doing in the Caribbean nation and urged them to stay connected to their roots. “Nigeria is proud of what you contribute to Saint Lucia,” she said, appreciating the President’s direct meeting with the community.
At the Wednesday event, members of the Nigerian community raised several concerns. One major issue discussed was the high cost of work permits. Smart Duah, President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation, pointed out that Nigerians are expected to pay $2,500 every year just to renew their work permits. He described this as a heavy burden and asked the President to consider setting up a diplomatic office in the country.
In response, Tinubu noted that talks were already ongoing to resolve the problem through diplomatic means.
Dr. Olugbemisola Ogunlusi, a paediatrician who has lived in Saint Lucia for nearly 20 years, said she was grateful for Tinubu’s visit. She shared that her children—raised in the country—are now medical doctors like their parents. “Since you arrived, you have propagated Nigeria more than ever thought,” she said, wishing the President a safe return.
