President Bola Tinubu has said that his administration inherited a country teetering on the edge of bankruptcy but has since taken steps to stabilise the economy and rebuild investor confidence.
Speaking at an interactive session with the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia, Tinubu stated.
“We inherited a country that was near bankruptcy. But we’ve rescued the economy. Nigeria is recovering. We’ve made oil smuggling less attractive and stopped chasing forex papers at the Central Bank.”
The event, hosted at the Windjammer Resort in Castries, was part of Tinubu’s continued engagement with Nigerians in the diaspora.
According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, this was the second such meeting in two days, following one hosted by Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip J. Pierre.
The forum gathered Nigerian professionals, students, and clergy based in the Caribbean island.
Tinubu reassured them of his administration’s commitment to inclusive growth and economic stability, despite challenges such as low per capita income.
“Our government will not abandon you,” he told the diaspora community. “But you must work hard. It is our job to help you succeed.”
During the discussion, concerns were raised about the high cost of work permits reportedly $2,500 per year and the lack of a Nigerian diplomatic mission in Saint Lucia. Smart Duah, President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation, urged the President to intervene.
In response, Tinubu said that diplomatic efforts were already in motion.
Attendees shared personal experiences and welcomed the President’s outreach. Dr. Olugbemisola Ogunlusi, a paediatrician who moved to Saint Lucia nearly two decades ago, spoke warmly about raising her children now doctors themselves in both Nigeria and Saint Lucia.
Father Festus Iwuagwu, a Nigerian priest serving locally, said the large turnout reflected the community’s regard for Tinubu.
The President urged Nigerians abroad to uphold a positive image of the country and respect local laws.
“Be of good behaviour. Don’t break the law,” he said. “Life is about hard work and consistency.”
As a token of appreciation, a Nigerian medical student and visual artist named Doris presented Tinubu with a custom-made portrait.
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