By Barth Ikiebe.
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening collaboration with Saint Lucia in the areas of education, culture, and technology.
Speaking during a visit to Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in Morne Fortune, Castries, on Tuesday—the fourth day of his State Visit to the Caribbean nation—President Tinubu engaged with faculty, staff, and students of the institution named after the 1979 Nobel Laureate in Economic Sciences.
Addressing the gathering, President Tinubu described the student community as central to building a more integrated Afro-Caribbean future. He announced a cultural exchange opportunity for the college’s performing arts group following their stage presentation of The Drum Maker, a play by Saint Lucian playwright Kendel Hippolyte.
“I offer a trip—at their convenience—for the performing arts group to come and mix with the talents that we have in Nigeria,” Tinubu said. He clarified that the offer was separate from the tuition-free scholarship programme extended to students from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
Underscoring the transformative power of education, the President urged students to be bold, consistent, and intellectually curious.
“Nothing like education can fight poverty. If anybody tells you that education is not crucial, ask the person to try ignorance,” he declared.
He also emphasized the importance of perseverance, critical thinking, and time management. “What you get out of this college is your own to use to achieve anything in life. Be determined, consistent, and bold. Be intellectually inquisitive.”
In a cautionary note on emerging technologies, President Tinubu advised students not to rely solely on artificial intelligence (AI):
“Don’t depend on AI to find solutions for you. Work through problems one step at a time—like following a recipe. The satisfaction of solving it yourself brings real pride.”
Highlighting shared historical and cultural roots between Africa and the Caribbean, Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to Afrocentric policies and South-South cooperation.
“I believe Nigeria will collaborate with Saint Lucia to uplift our Black race. In our national anthem, we pledge to hand over a banner without stain to future generations. That banner will be yours—if you work hard, honestly, and consistently.”
Saint Lucia’s Minister for Education, Sustainable Development, Innovation, Science, Technology and Vocational Training, Edward Shadrack, welcomed Tinubu’s visit as a testament to enduring ties between Africa and the Caribbean.
“Your presence here today is a powerful reminder of our shared history, culture, and aspirations,” he said. “This visit is more than diplomacy—it’s a reflection of our belief in the power of education to bridge continents and build partnerships.”
Cletus Springer, Chairman of the College’s Board of Governors, called for a robust partnership between the college and Nigerian universities, including student and faculty exchanges, joint research, digital innovation, and enhanced technical and vocational training.
Thanking President Tinubu for the scholarship programme, Springer said: “We are excited about our students learning alongside their Nigerian peers. This is the surest way to build cross-ocean networks rooted in our shared African-Caribbean identity.”
He also praised the President for choosing to engage directly with the academic community:
“Your presence here is deeply inspiring. That you chose to spend time with our students—25 of whom are here today, along with many more watching online—means a great deal to us.”
Reflecting on the legacy of Sir Arthur Lewis and Sir Darnley Alexander, a former Chief Justice of Nigeria of Saint Lucian descent, Springer highlighted the intellectual and historical connections linking both nations.
“Their lives inspire institutions like ours and Nigerian universities to reignite collaboration in pursuit of shared development goals.”
Speaking on behalf of the student body, Naeem Philbert, President of the Students’ Council, described Tinubu’s visit as a moment of reconnection.
“Today is not just about diplomacy. It’s a quiet but powerful affirmation that we have not forgotten one another,” Philbert said. “For many of us in Saint Lucia, Nigeria is not a foreign land. It is family—its music, literature, and legacy live within us.”
He expressed deep appreciation for the scholarship initiative, calling it a bridge to lasting Afro-Caribbean bonds.
“Your Excellency, your generosity speaks volumes. This visit brings not only the weight of legacy but also the promise of possibility for youth like us.”
President Tinubu was accompanied by Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa; Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal; Director-General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, Hon. Yusuf Yakub; and Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
Before departing the college, the President paid his respects at the gravesite of Sir Arthur Lewis located on the school compound.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
