President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced that the Nigerian-Caribbean States President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced that the Nigerian-Caribbean States Scholarship Scheme will begin in the next academic year. The program will allow students from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to study in Nigerian universities.
He spoke during a joint press conference with Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip J. Pierre. President Tinubu said the scholarship is part of a broader plan to strengthen ties and boost cooperation in education, trade, and development.
After a working luncheon with OECS leaders in Gros Islet, President Tinubu confirmed that preparations for the initiative have already started. He also shared that a proposal for visa waivers for holders of diplomatic and official passports from OECS countries is progressing.
“The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States is very close to us in Africa,” President Tinubu said. “We are moving forward. We won’t drop the ball.”
Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, explained that a joint committee will oversee the program. Members from Nigeria and OECS states will work together to finalise details. They aim to ensure that students start their studies in Nigerian institutions in 2026.
Prime Minister Pierre welcomed the scholarship as a timely gesture of solidarity.
“We expect students to begin their studies in Nigeria in the next academic year,” he said.
Visa facilitation is also a top priority for the Nigeria–OECS Joint Committee. The group will also focus on improving air connectivity, trade, and tourism. Prime Minister Pierre said discussions are already underway to create reciprocal visa waivers.
Earlier in the day, President Tinubu addressed a special session of Saint Lucia’s Parliament. He outlined his vision for a new chapter in Nigeria’s relationship with the OECS.
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