In a groundbreaking move to strengthen ties between Africa and the Caribbean, President Bola Tinubu has officially launched a new scholarship programme for students from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to study in Nigerian universities starting from the next academic session.
Announced during a joint press conference in Gros Islet with Saint Lucian Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, President Tinubu emphasized that this initiative is part of a larger plan to foster cooperation in education, trade, agriculture, and food security. “The OECS is very close to us in Africa. This partnership is about building capacity and creating real opportunities,” Tinubu declared.
The scholarship scheme will be coordinated by a joint committee between Nigeria and OECS member states. Discussions are also in progress to introduce visa waivers for holders of diplomatic and official passports from OECS nations a major step toward seamless collaboration.
Prime Minister Pierre hailed the move as a “practical expression of solidarity,” highlighting how visa facilitation, tourism, and air travel were also part of ongoing discussions.
This bold initiative is not just about education, it’s about strengthening Africa-Caribbean unity for a shared future.
