Eric Patrick
President Bola Tinubu has stated that his administration inherited an economy on the verge of collapse but has since taken bold steps to stabilise the country and restore investor confidence.
The President’s remarks were contained in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga on Thursday.
Speaking during an interactive session with the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia on Wednesday at the Windjammer Resort in Castries, Tinubu said, “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.”
The event, which gathered Nigerian professionals, students, and religious leaders, was part of Tinubu’s diplomatic visit to the Caribbean nation and marked his second meeting with the diaspora in two days.
The first was hosted Tuesday evening by Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip J. Pierre.
Tinubu acknowledged that while Nigeria’s per capita income remains low, his administration is pursuing reforms aimed at fostering inclusive growth and ensuring long-term economic sustainability. He reassured Nigerians living abroad of the government’s support.
“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 said.
The interactive forum, organised by the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, offered an opportunity for Nigerians in Saint Lucia to raise key concerns directly with the President.
Dabiri-Erewa praised the diaspora community for their positive contributions, adding, “Nigeria is proud of what you contribute to Saint Lucia.”
Dabiri-Erewa also thanked President Tinubu for engaging with them in person.
Among the issues raised was the steep cost of work permits and the absence of a Nigerian diplomatic mission in Saint Lucia.
President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation, Smart Duah, noted that Nigerians are currently required to pay $2,500 annually for work permits, a burden he described as excessive.
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He appealed to the President to prioritise the establishment of a diplomatic post in the country.
In response, Tinubu assured the community that diplomatic efforts were already underway to address the matter.
Dr. Olugbemisola Ogunlusi, a paediatrician who has lived in Saint Lucia for nearly 20 years, thanked the President for his visit and shared a personal story of her family’s contributions to Nigeria.
“Since you arrived, you have propagated Nigeria more than ever thought,” she said.
Also speaking, Father Festus Iwuagwu, a Nigerian priest based in Saint Lucia, said the large turnout at the meeting was evidence of the deep respect and affection the diaspora holds for Tinubu.
Tinubu urged the community to continue upholding Nigeria’s image and remain law-abiding. “My plea to you all: continue to be of good behaviour, don’t break the law,” he said.
Reflecting on his own journey as a student in the United States more than 50 years ago, Tinubu added, “Life is about working hard, being consistent.”
As a gesture of appreciation, the Nigerian community presented the President with a personalised portrait, painted by Doris, a Saint Lucia-based Nigerian medical student and visual artist.