President Bola Tinubu has approved a new scholarship programme for students from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to study at Nigerian universities starting from the next academic year.
Speaking at a joint press conference in Gros Islet on Monday with Saint Lucian Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, Tinubu said the initiative is already underway and will be coordinated through a joint committee between Nigeria and OECS member states.
“The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States is very close to us in Africa. We are moving forward to facilitate business and education opportunities, build capacity, and explore other areas such as agriculture and food security. We won’t drop the ball,” Tinubu said.
He explained that the scholarships form part of a broader effort to deepen cooperation in education, trade, and development. Tinubu also confirmed that discussions are ongoing to grant visa waivers for holders of diplomatic and official passports from OECS countries.
Prime Minister Pierre welcomed the move, describing it as “a timely and practical expression of solidarity.” He noted that visa facilitation, air connectivity, and tourism were also high on the agenda during talks with President Tinubu.
“We expect students to begin their studies in Nigeria in the next academic year. A joint committee has been set up to address education, trade, and travel matters. The people-to-people exchange will be key,” Pierre said.
Earlier, President Tinubu addressed a special joint session of Saint Lucia’s Parliament, where he outlined his vision for a renewed partnership between Nigeria and the Caribbean bloc.