Tinubu Arrives in Saint Lucia, Begins Diplomatic Tour of Caribbean, South America

President Bola Tinubu arrived in Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia, on Saturday evening, marking the start of his official visit to the Caribbean and South America.

According to a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu received full military honours at Hewanorra International Airport. He was welcomed by Saint Lucia’s Governor-General, Cyril Charles, and Prime Minister Philip Pierre.

The state visit formally begins on Sunday with courtesy calls on the Governor-General and the Prime Minister.

On Monday, President Tinubu is expected to address a special joint session of the Saint Lucian Senate and House of Assembly at the William Jefferson Clinton Ballroom, Sandals Grande, in Gros Islet.

The event will be attended by leaders from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), top government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia, and OECS Director-General, Dr. Didacus Jules.

Following the address, Tinubu will host a high-level working luncheon with OECS Heads of Government, focusing on enhancing Nigeria-OECS cooperation in areas such as economic development and cultural exchange.

He will also visit the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in Castries to promote academic collaboration and strengthen educational ties between Nigeria and Saint Lucia.

The visit highlights Nigeria’s continued commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic partnerships with Caribbean nations.

After wrapping up his engagements in Saint Lucia, Tinubu will head to Brazil for the 2025 BRICS Summit, scheduled for July 6–7 in Rio de Janeiro. He is attending the summit at the invitation of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva as a recognition of Nigeria’s growing role as a BRICS partner country.

This year’s 17th BRICS Summit will focus on “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance,” with emphasis on partnerships for social, economic, and environmental development.