Muhyideen Jimoh - NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA

Muhyideen Jimoh
Jul, Wed, 2025

Tinubu rallies Saint Lucian students for Afro-Caribbean devt

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has urged Saint Lucian students to harness the power of education to shape a more prosperous and united Afro-Caribbean future.

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‎President Tinubu stated this while addressing students at the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in Morne Fortune on Tuesday, the fourth day of his State Visit to Saint Lucia.

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‎This is contained in a statement by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga on Tuesday.

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The Nigerian leader underscored the role of education in building a resilient and interconnected Afro-Caribbean community.

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‎He praised the institution, named after Nobel Laureate Sir Arthur Lewis, as a beacon of academic excellence and social transformation.

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Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Saint Lucia in the areas of education, culture, and technology.

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‎He announced a cultural exchange opportunity following a performance of The Drum Maker, based on a work by Saint Lucian playwright Kendel Hippolyte.

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‎”I offer a trip – at its convenience – to the performing arts group to come and mix with the talents that we have in Nigeria,” he said.

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‎Acknowleging education as a powerful weapon against poverty, he urged the students to remain bold, consistent, and disciplined in their learning journey.

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‎”Nothing like can fight poverty like education. If anybody tells you that education is not crucial, ask the person to try ignorance,” he said.

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‎He highlighted perseverance, critical thinking, and effective time management as keys to personal and academic success.

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‎”What you get out of this college is your own that you can use to achieve anything in life. Just be determined, consistent, and bold. Be intellectually inquisitive,” he added.

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‎President Tinubu advised the students not to over-rely on artificial intelligence in problem-solving and academic growth.

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‎”Don’t depend on AI technology to find you the solution. Go through like a recipe in the kitchen, one after the other. Then you solve the problem.

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‎”Once you solve the problem, you see satisfaction in yourself and pride in achievement,” he said.

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‎He also emphasised Nigeria’s dedication to fostering Afrocentric policies and South-South partnerships rooted in shared heritage.

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‎”I believe Nigeria will collaborate with Saint Lucia to make a difference in the lives of our Black race.

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‎”In our national anthem, we pledge to hand over a banner without stain to the generation that comes after us. We will give you that banner if you work hard, honestly, and consistently.”

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‎Earlier, Edward Shadrack, Saint Lucia’s Minister for Education, described Tinubu’s visit as a reaffirmation of Afro-Caribbean unity.

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‎”Your presence here today is a powerful testament to the enduring bonds between Africa and the Caribbean—ties deeply rooted in shared history, culture, and aspirations.

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‎”Today’s gathering symbolises more than a diplomatic visit. It reflects our shared belief in the power of education to bridge continents, build partnerships, and shape a more connected and empowered world,” Shadrack said.

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‎Mr Cletus Springer, Chairman of the college’s board of governors, called for collaboration between SALCC and Nigerian higher institutions.

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‎”We are excited about our students learning alongside their Nigerian peers.

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‎”This is the surest way for our respective peoples to build networks that cross oceans but remain rooted in our shared African-Caribbean identity,” he said.

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‎Representing the student body, Naeem Philbert, President of the Students’ Council, described the visit as a spiritual reconnection with Africa.

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‎”Today is not just about diplomatic formality, it is a quiet yet powerful affirmation that we have not forgotten one another.

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‎”Though our stories have been written on different ocean sides, they remain deeply connected. For many of us in Saint Lucia, Nigeria is not a foreign country. It is family. Its music, literature, and legacy live with us,” Philbert said.

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‎The President had on his delegation; the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, and Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal.

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‎Also present were the Director-General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, Yusuf Yakub, and Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

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‎Before departing the college, Tinubu paid his respects at Sir Arthur Lewis’ gravesite in the school compound. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

Saint Lucia confers highest national honour on President Tinubu

Muhyideen Jimoh
Jul, Tue, 2025

General News

Saint Lucia confers highest national honour on President Tinubu

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‎By Muhyideen Jimoh
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‎Abuja, July 1, 2025 (NAN) Saint Lucia has conferred its highest national honour, the Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia (KCOSL), on President Bola Tinubu.

The honour was awarded in recognition of President Tinubu’s efforts to strengthen historical and cultural ties between Africa and the Caribbean region.

Mr Errol Charles, Governor-General of Saint Lucia, performed the formal investiture during an official reception held Monday night at Government House, Morne Fortune.

The Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, announced the honour in a statement released Tuesday in Abuja.

President Tinubu, who will now carry the honorific title “Sir,” expressed deep appreciation to the government and people of Saint Lucia for the recognition.

He described the award as a symbol of growing ties between Nigeria and Saint Lucia and pledged to deepen relations with the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).

“I am here as one of you, representing that historical journey taken by our forebears, the history that we cannot reverse but are prepared to build upon with progressive understanding.

“I am greatly honoured, on behalf of my country and the nearly 220 million people in Nigeria. I came here as a president, but I’m leaving as a knight,” he added.

Governor General of Saint Lucia, Cyril Charles decorates President Bola Tinubu with the title of Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia (KCOSL)

President Tinubu lauded Saint Lucia’s warm hospitality, describing the experience as “thrilling and exciting.”

He thanked both the Prime Minister and the Governor-General for deeming him worthy of such distinction.

“The black race is not lazy. We are hardworking and honest people. Given the opportunity, we can excel,” he said, emphasising the resilience of African and Caribbean peoples and urging continued cooperation.

The Governor-General announced that Tinubu would now be formally addressed as: “Sir Bola Ahmed Tinubu, KCOSL (Hon.), President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

He noted that the award reflected President Tinubu’s leadership across Africa and his commitment to unity between Africa and the Caribbean.

Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip Pierre, also lauded Tinubu for accepting the honour, saying, “For Saint Lucia and the OECS, part of our heritage lies in Africa, and we are proud of it.

“We want to develop it and bring our people closer together; Africa and this region must be one.”(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Scholarship for Caribbean students begins next academic year- Tinubu

Muhyideen Jimoh
Jul, Tue, 2025

Education

Scholarship for Caribbean students begins next academic year- Tinubu

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‎By ‎Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has announced that a scholarship scheme for students from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) will begin in the next academic year.
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‎He made the announcement during a joint press conference with Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip Pierre, on Monday in Gros Islet.
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‎This is contained in a statement issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga and made available to newsmen in Abuja.
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‎The Nigerian leader said that the scholarship scheme is part of a broader cooperation framework between Nigeria and the OECS.
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‎He noted that the initiative aims to deepen people-to-people ties and expand collaboration in education, trade, and development.
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‎Tinubu also revealed ongoing plans to introduce visa waivers for holders of diplomatic and official passports from OECS countries.
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‎”I believe we can take advantage of our presence here to get from the fruit that is lower to us and then reach the opportunity we have right here.”
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‎”The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States is very close to us in Africa, and I thank them for the opportunity to address the joint session of Parliament.”
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‎”This will allow us actualise our dreams of getting closer to facilitate business and education opportunities, capacity building, and look at other areas of agriculture and food security.”
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‎”We can easily do that by having a working commission. And we don’t have to look farther away.”
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‎”The organisation itself has indicated several actions. We are moving forward from there. We won’t drop the ball,” he assured.
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‎Tinubu stated that the scholarship programme was developed in partnership with the OECS member states.
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‎He added that a joint implementation committee comprising representatives from Nigeria and OECS member states will oversee the rollout.
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‎Their task will be to finalise modalities and ensure beneficiaries commence studies in Nigeria next academic year.
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‎When asked about potential challenges in expanding OECS cooperation in key sectors, President Tinubu responded:
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‎”I don’t look at difficulties. I look at problem-solving. And that is why the working lunch promoted a quick understanding of the expected difficulty level.”
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‎”If we take a geometric definition of a straight line, which is the quickest point between two points, if we move on a straight line, we get our goal achieved, and there will be no problems”.
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‎Prime Minister Pierre welcomed the initiative, calling it a timely and practical show of solidarity.
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‎”We expect students to begin their studies in Nigeria in the next academic year, based on the President’s directive. This is immediate action,” the Prime Minister said.
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‎He added that visa facilitation is now a key agenda item for the Nigeria–OECS Joint Committee.
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‎Other top priorities include enhancing air connectivity, trade, and tourism.
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‎Asked when reciprocal visa waivers might be implemented, Pierre stated:
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‎”Well, at the joint meeting, we discussed that. Additionally, there are some islands in the OECS, such as St. Kitts, where visa requirements do not apply.”
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‎”We said that the committee will deal with all these issues, and the first on the agenda will be the people-to-people exchange.”
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‎”This will come with the visa requirements. So we hope to have a speedy answer to that as soon as possible”.
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‎Earlier, President Tinubu addressed a special joint session of Saint Lucia’s Senate and House of Assembly, where he outlined his vision for a renewed and dynamic engagement between Nigeria and the OECS. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Sadiya Hamza

‎Our ancestors traced to Nigeria – Saint Lucian Senate President

Muhyideen Jimoh
Jul, Tue, 2025

Culture & Tourism , Foreign

‎Our ancestors traced to Nigeria – Saint Lucian Senate President

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‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President of the Saint Lucian Senate, Alvina Reynolds, has highlighted the strong ancestral connections between Nigeria and Saint Lucia.

‎Reynolds cited data from a British census conducted on the island in 1815, revealing that many Saint Lucians trace their origins to Nigeria.

‎She made this known while welcoming President Bola Tinubu to a joint session of Saint Lucia’s bicameral parliament on Monday.

A statement on the joint session issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga was made available to newsmen on Monday in Abuja.

‎“Of the 16,282 enslaved people in Saint Lucia that year, 3,488 were born in Africa.”

‎”Of these, 34 per cent were from Nigeria, 11 per cent from Nigeria-Cameroon, and 22 per cent from the Congo.”

‎”The remaining 12,794 were born in Saint Lucia, with most of their forefathers coming from Sene-Gambia and Nigeria,” she said.

‎She described President Tinubu’s visit as historic for both the Parliament and the people of Saint Lucia.

‎According to Reynolds, the transatlantic slave trade, spanning over 350 years, forged enduring cultural ties between Africa and the Caribbean.

Reynolds called the visit, “a mission to reunite us with our homeland and for our people to work together.”

‎The Senate President also paid tribute to Sir Darnley Alexander, a Saint Lucian who served as Nigeria’s Chief Justice from 1975 to 1979.

‎“This mission, Your Excellency, continues with Catholic priests from Nigeria who have answered the call and come to Saint Lucia to serve, one of whom is our special guest this morning—Father Festus.”

‎“Your address to this Parliament today could not have occurred at a more auspicious time, for today is World Parliament Day—an occasion to reflect on the essential role of Parliament and the service we provide as representatives to our people.”

‎In response to Tinubu’s speech, Prime Minister Philip Pierre described the State Visit as a moment of “freedom and celebration.”

‎Pierre acknowledged deep ancestral and emotional ties with West Africa, calling Saint Lucia “a small fragment of Africa.”

‎“Our people have been separated, but nothing has ever been able to separate us spiritually and culturally from West Africa, where some of our ancestors came from and for whom our hearts continually yearn.”

‎“We are African people who have made permanent homes for ourselves on this side of the Atlantic, on the hills and valleys of the plantations on which we were enslaved.

‎”But, we have built these homes, Mr. President, not for ourselves, but in the service of all humanity, especially Africa, in whose direction we continually watch, wait, hope and pray for our future redemption,” he said.

‎Pierre humorously noted that, Saint Lucia’s population is smaller than Eti-Osa Local Government in Lagos.‎

‎Nonetheless, the Prime Minister affirmed the island’s pride as a sovereign nation “deeply connected to the world, Nigeria, and West Africa.”

‎He also acknowledged the Nigerian community’s contributions in healthcare, religion, cuisine, tourism, and social development.

‎“We warmly welcome every Nigerian hand of support and embrace with gratitude their contributions to Saint Lucia’s cultural, social, and economic development.”

‎”We are the richer for it,” he said.

‎Reflecting on Africa-Caribbean relations, Pierre welcomed progress since the first Africa-CARICOM Summit in 2021 and anticipated the next summit in Addis Ababa.

‎He listed potential cooperation areas, including tourism, air travel, creative industries, fintech, sports, renewable energy, and medical services.

‎Pierre noted that while Saint Lucia receives over one million tourists annually, few come from Nigeria due to limited air connectivity.‎

‎He proposed partnerships in sports, especially football and cricket, and urged Nigerian fintech and healthcare professionals to explore Saint Lucia’s expanding sectors.

‎The joint session was attended by diplomats, dignitaries, and top leaders from across the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Tinubu woos East Caribbean states to invest in Nigeria

Muhyideen Jimoh
Jul, Tue, 2025

Foreign

Tinubu woos East Caribbean states to invest in Nigeria

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

President Bola Tinubu has called on the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to take advantage of ‘Africa’s largest market’ and invest in Nigeria.

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‎The President described Nigeria as a gateway to Africa’s booming market and urged the island nations to deepen trade, joint ventures and investment ties.

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‎Tinubu made the call on Monday while addressing a special joint session of the Senate and House of Assembly of Saint Lucia.

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‎This is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga.

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‎Onanuga said that the President advocated partnerships in agriculture, manufacturing, and services that would position Nigeria as both a supplier and a destination for OECS exports.

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‎“When I assumed the Office of the President of Nigeria in May 2023, my Administration embarked on a series of economic, political and social reforms for sustainable growth and development.

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‎“It is in line with this orientation and to explore areas of cooperation, that I decided to undertake this state visit to Saint Lucia.

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‎“In this spirit, I wish to express Nigeria’s readiness to deepen cooperation with the OECS in mutual interest, including trade, investment, health, culture, education, and climate resilience,” Tinubu said.

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‎He emphasised Nigeria’s vast natural resources and large consumer base as assets the OECS can leverage for exports and strategic partnerships.

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‎“Together, we can leverage our respective strengths to attract investment, create jobs, and foster joint ventures that benefit both our peoples.”

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‎The President used the occasion to formally announced the establishment of diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Saint Lucia, calling it a “symbolic bridge” for deeper engagement.

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‎“A symbolic bridge that will provide a gateway in fostering closer ties between both countries,” Tinubu added.

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‎He proposed a Joint Commission or Political Consultation Agreement to serve as a structured framework for future cooperation.

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‎To strengthen cultural ties, the presidential aide said that President Tinubu offered full scholarships to students from OECS nations to study in Nigeria.

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‎“I respectfully urge a reciprocal gesture to enable smoother movement of officials and foster closer institutional cooperation.”

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‎He announced Nigeria’s willingness to grant visa waivers for OECS diplomatic and official passport holders.

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‎Tinubu also highlighted shared historical and cultural bonds between Nigeria and Caribbean nations rooted in African heritage and Pan-African ideals.

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‎“Currents shaped by the transatlantic slave trade and colonial subjugation…out of which emerged a shared cultural identity, resilience, and aspiration.”

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‎“This occasion serves as a testament to the enduring ideals of Pan-Africanism…among peoples of African descent.”

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‎He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to expanding ties with the OECS as a “cherished partner” in Africa’s broader global engagement.

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‎“We remain committed to strengthening and expanding the enduring bonds of friendship that unite our regions.”

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‎The President proposed a maritime university collaboration and the extension of Nigeria’s Technical Aid Corps (TAC) to OECS countries.

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‎“I strongly advocate for educational exchange programmes between Nigerian and OECS maritime universities to foster mutual understanding and academic collaboration.”

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‎Addressing climate challenges, Tinubu called for joint research on disaster preparedness, sustainable agriculture, and adaptation strategies.

‎Reiterating Nigeria’s Afrocentric foreign policy, Tinubu underlined Nigeria’s legacy in Pan-African advocacy and support for global Black solidarity.

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‎“Our foreign policy remains unapologetically Afrocentric.”

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‎“Nigeria has long stood at the vanguard of advocacy for the dignity and advancement of Black people worldwide.”

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‎“This was evident from its strong opposition to colonialism and racial injustice, to its leadership in the Pan-African movement,” Tinubu said.

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‎He highlighted Nigeria’s cultural richness in music, fashion, cuisine, Nollywood, and literature, calling it Africa’s creative heart.

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‎Over 300 attendees, including diplomats, officials, and members of the Nigerian community, were present during Tinubu’s address.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Nigeria, Saint Lucia to establish formal diplomatic relations

Muhyideen Jimoh
Jun, Mon, 2025

Foreign

Nigeria, Saint Lucia to establish formal diplomatic relations

168 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

President Bola Tinubu and Prime Minister Philip Pierre on Sunday in Castries committed to formalising diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Saint Lucia.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga on Monday.

According to the statement, both leaders ‎reached this agreement during Tinubu’s courtesy visit to Pierre’s official residence on the second day of his State Visit to the Caribbean nation.

President Tinubu expressed gratitude for the warm reception, describing Saint Lucians as “valued friends and brothers.”

‎Onanuga noted that the Nigerian leader underscored the historical and cultural bonds linking Africa and the Caribbean.

‎“Our two nations are bound by history, culture, and common aspirations. We are determined to nurture and expand this relationship,” Tinubu said.

According to Onanuga, the president emphasised that solidifying these ties would create opportunities for trade, investment, tourism, education, and cultural exchange.

Tinubu also advocated for improved consular services to enhance mobility and citizen support between the two nations.

“This is a bridge between Africa and the Caribbean, a pathway to deepen economic ties and foster mutual understanding.

‎”It reflects our desire to advance prosperity, solidarity, and sustainable development,” he added.

Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate with Saint Lucia on global concerns, including climate change, disaster response, and development financing.

Onanuga noted that the President affirmed Nigeria’s support for the priorities of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in international negotiations.

According to the statement, Prime Minister Pierre, welcomed the positive momentum in bilateral talks and voiced optimism about the evolving partnership.

‎“There is an air of enthusiasm and optimism about the future of relations between our countries,” Pierre said.

‎The prime minister reflected on Saint Lucia’s enduring ties with Nigeria, dating back to its post-independence era.

“Saint Lucia’s small size did not prevent it from offering one of its finest talents to the post-independence development project of Nigeria in the person of Sir Darnley Alexander, as Nigeria’s fourth Chief Justice between 1975 and 1979.”

Pierre outlined possible areas of collaboration, highlighting agriculture, tourism, education, health, culture, and infrastructure.

‎“The cultural affinities between us are apparent. This is embedded in our DNA, and time cannot erase it. Saint Lucia is now an established global centre for cultural festivals.

‎“The acclaimed Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival is now a global brand. There is much we can share with Nigeria as it rises in global entertainment.

‎“We can also share a lot in the film and music industries; moreover, there is incredible potential for people-to-people exchange.”

Onanuga said Prime Minister Pierre praised Nigeria’s achievements in higher education, proposing deeper academic ties.

‎“Nigeria’s accomplishments in higher education are historical and well known.”

“Your programme will give you an insight into what we are doing, including a visit to Sir Arthur Lewis Community College.”

“Our distinguished Nobel Laureate believed education is the key to development. My government aims for one university graduate per household.”

Pierre reaffirmed Saint Lucia’s commitment to strengthening ties with Africa, with Nigeria playing a strategic role.

‎“Your visit comes at a time of heightened global insecurity and shifting power dynamics in international relations.

‎“There is growing uncertainty about the motivations behind alliances and the integrity of friendships in international relationships,” he said.

The presidential aide said Tinubu also visited the Governor-General of Saint Lucia, Cyril Charles, at the Government House, Morne Fortune.

‎He said they discussed the Commonwealth as a platform for cooperation on climate issues, technical assistance, and economic challenges.

According to Onanuga, Tinubu used the occasion to reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to advocating for the interests of smaller states and exploring new trade and investment opportunities. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited Sadiya Hamza

Tinubu’s Saint Lucia visit ‘ll boost ties with Caribbean nations — Presidency

Muhyideen Jimoh
Jun, Sun, 2025

Foreign

Tinubu’s Saint Lucia visit ‘ll boost ties with Caribbean nations — Presidency

186 total views today

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

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‎The Presidency, says President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to Saint Lucia is a strategic engagement that will deepen educational and cultural cooperation with not just the island nation, but the Caribbean.

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‎This is contained in a statement by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Sunday.

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‎Onanuga said the visit will rekindle Nigeria’s ancestral and strategic economic ties with the Caribbean nation and the wider CARICOM bloc.

‎“In the wake of some Nigerians’ misguided, mischievous, and uninformed comments regarding President Tinubu’s historic state visit to Saint Lucia, it is necessary to clarify the purpose.

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‎“First, from the perspective of the Government of Saint Lucia, the visit by the Nigerian leader paves the way for rekindling of ancestral bonds, igniting a new era of diplomatic, cultural, and economic possibilities between our nations,” Onanuga stated.

‎He stated that the President’s historic visit aligned with Nigeria’s “Four D’s” foreign policy: Democracy, Development, Diaspora, and Demography—key pillars of the country’s global engagement.

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‎Onanuga noted that Saint Lucia, with deep African roots and a significant Nigerian-descended population, views the visit as a homecoming of sorts.

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‎It would be recalled that in the 19th century, Nigerian immigrants brought enduring cultural and religious traditions to the island, a legacy still felt today.

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‎Onanuga said the visit underscored Nigeria’s rising soft power, driven by Afrobeats, Nollywood, and a literary heritage that resonated across the Caribbean.

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‎He noted that Saint Lucia, home to the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), is a gateway to the 15-member CARICOM bloc with a 130 billion dollars GDP.

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‎He said that President Tinubu’s presence signalled Nigeria’s interest in expanding South-South trade and strengthening diplomatic and economic ties with the Caribbean.

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‎”Nigeria and Saint Lucia already share remarkable historical links, such as Sir Darnley Alexander, a Saint Lucian, who served as Chief Justice of Nigeria from

‎1975 to 1979,” he stated.

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‎The presidency also highlighted contributions of other Saint Lucians, including Neville Skeete, who helped design the Central Bank of Nigeria headquarters, and Sir Darnley’s son Michael, a frontline medical officer during the Nigerian civil war.

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‎Onanuga said that Nigeria’s Technical Aid Corps, part of Tinubu’s delegation, will support development efforts by deploying professionals to key sectors in Saint Lucia.

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‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Saint Lucia, which gained independence in 1979, had hosted fewer than 10 official state visits.

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‎The last African leader to visit was President Nelson Mandela, who attended the 1998 CARICOM Heads of Government Summit.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma

Muhyideen Jimoh
Jun, Sun, 2025

General News

Akume remains SGF—- Presidency

2,179 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Presidency has dismissed reports claiming that Sen. George Akume has been replaced as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

This is contained in a statement issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga.

Onanuga described the report in a section of the media as “fabricated and misleading”.

‎The presidential spokesperson said that ‎President Tinubu, who is currently on an official visit to Saint Lucia, has not made any new appointment.

“There has been no change in the status of His Excellency, Sen. George Akume, as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

“The information circulating about Akume’s replacement is untrue. Agents of mischief fabricated it.

“The Presidency advises Nigerians to disregard the fake news,” Onanuga said.

There have been speculations that Akume had stepped down as SGF to become the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). (NAN)‎(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Al-Habibiyyah advocates Waqf as solution to socio-economic challenges

Muhyideen Jimoh
Jun, Sun, 2025

General News , Religious

Al-Habibiyyah advocates Waqf as solution to socio-economic challenges

207 total views today

By Hadiza Mohammed

The National Chief Imam of Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society (AIS), Fuad Adeyemi, has identified waqf as a powerful solution to the socio-economic challenges in the country.

He made this known at the unveiling of the Al-Habibiyyah Waqf Foundation (AWF), along with programmes like Faith and Philanthropy, Estate Planning, Rural Development, and Mosque Support Services.

Waqf is a strategic Islamic charitable endowment that involves dedicating assets or properties whose benefits are channeled towards community development.

Adeyemi said the AWF aims to promote sustainable development through the effective collection, management, and distribution of waqf in accordance with Shari’a principles.

He noted that AWF would ensure transparency and accountability, while preserving and growing endowed assets for long-term social benefit.

Adeyemi described waqf as the dedication of property or assets for religious, charitable, or public use, with ownership transferred to Islamic community.

He said the benefits are meant for designated beneficiaries and not the donor or their heirs.

He also explained that waqf provides sustained support for religious, educational, and social welfare initiatives.

The cleric called on the government to encourage waqf, saying it could impact citizens by providing water, electricity, schools, and other socio-economic services.

He added that the organisation plans to raise awareness on waqf and engage wealthy individuals through targeted advocacy.

“The meaning of waqf is that you’re transferring your property to God. This is one programme that even the government should encourage anybody that want to do it.”

“Nigeria is so blessed but unfortunately our problem is administration of our blessings. And waqf will now be a better way of administering our blessings in such a way that it will be useful for you today and tomorrow.”

“We have determined that we are going to enlighten people about this programme not just in Abuja but we are going to move round four or five states,” he said.

Dr Abdullahi Lamido, a lecturer from Bayero University Kano, gave a lecture titled “Waqf: An Endless Bliss”, highlighting its holistic benefits.

“When you make a waqf or by declaring something a waqf, it means it’s no longer your own legally.”

“It is not part of your inheritable wealth or your heirs. It’s not something you can sell or mortgage because it’s not yours,” he said.

“We need to have waqf for schools, we need health care waqf, we need waqf for youth development, and of course for employees generation,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

‎Tinubu arrives in Saint Lucia for state visit

Muhyideen Jimoh
Jun, Sun, 2025

Foreign

‎Tinubu arrives in Saint Lucia for state visit

178 total views today

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu arrived in Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia, Saturday evening for the first leg of his two-nation trip to the Caribbean and South America.

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‎This is contained in a statement issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga and made available to newsmen in Abuja.

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According Onanuga, ‎upon arrival at Hewanorra International Airport, the President was accorded full military honours and received by the Governor-General of Saint Lucia, Cyril Charles, and Prime Minister Philip Pierre.

He said the President will officially begin his state visit Sunday with courtesy calls on both the Governor-General and the Prime Minister.

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“‎On Monday, he will address a special joint session of Saint Lucia’s Senate and House of Assembly.

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‎”The address will be held at the William Jefferson Clinton Ballroom, Sandals Grande, in Gros Islet,” he said

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‎The president’s spokesperson said the event will be attended by Heads of Government from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and top Saint Lucian officials.

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‎Other attendees will include members of the diplomatic corps, the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia, and the OECS Director-General, Dr. Didacus Jules.

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‎He said, following the joint parliamentary session, President Tinubu will host a high-level working luncheon with OECS leaders.

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‎The discussions will focus on strengthening ties between Nigeria and the OECS, particularly in economic cooperation and cultural exchange.

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‎The Nigerian leader is also scheduled to visit the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in Castries.

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‎The visit aims to promote academic collaboration and reinforce educational links between Nigeria and Saint Lucia.

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‎The President’s visit reflects Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to deepening diplomatic and economic relations with Caribbean nations.

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‎After concluding his engagements in Saint Lucia, President Tinubu will travel to Brazil for the 2025 BRICS Summit.

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‎The summit will take place in Rio de Janeiro from July 6 to July 7.

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‎The Nigerian leader is attending the BRICS summit at the invitation of Brazilian President Lula da Silva, in recognition of Nigeria’s role as a ‘partner country’.

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‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 17th BRICS Summit will focus on “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance”.

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‎Discussions will prioritise two key areas: Global South Cooperation and BRICS Partnerships for Social, Economic, and Environmental Development.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi