President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for stronger unity and collaboration among Africans and people of African descent across the world to build a future rooted in promise, honour, and dignity for the Black race.
Speaking on Tuesday night at a dinner reception held in his honour by the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Philip J. Pierre, in Castries, Tinubu encouraged Africans in the diaspora to harness technology and innovation to drive inclusive social progress. The dinner was attended by members of the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia, some of whom have lived on the Caribbean island for over 30 years.
“It’s not the fault of our forebears that we find ourselves dispersed. But today, we can work together, be united, and build a future of honour for the Black race,” Tinubu said, according to a statement released Wednesday by Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga.
Describing himself as “unapologetically Afrocentric,” the President expressed pride in the resilience and industriousness of Black people around the world.
“I’ve travelled far and wide, and no one is as industrious, determined and focused as the Black people. The challenge is ours, and we must rise to it to ensure a better life for our kith and kin,” he said.
He noted Nigeria’s significant global demographic, saying: “One out of every five Black nationals in the world is Nigerian. Industrialisation and technology are making life easier, and we must work together to make our people proud—today, tomorrow and beyond.”
Prime Minister Pierre, in his remarks, congratulated President Tinubu on receiving the prestigious Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia (KCOSL) during his state visit, describing it as a well-earned recognition of exemplary leadership.
“This honour is reserved for individuals who have rendered exceptional service of national importance to Saint Lucia,” Pierre said. “Our engagement with you over the past few days convinced us you deserve this recognition. May it remind you of your historic visit to our country, the Eastern Caribbean, and the OECS.”
He also extended appreciation to the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia for their positive contributions and seamless integration into the island’s society.
“You have been living with us for many years—raising families, working, and contributing quietly to our development. Your integration has been seamless due to the cultural similarities we share,” the Prime Minister noted.
Pierre highlighted historic ties between Nigeria and Saint Lucia, referencing the legacy of Sir Darnley Alexander, a Saint Lucian who served as Nigeria’s Chief Justice from 1975 to 1979.
“Sir Darnley Alexander, born here in Soufriere, was invited to Nigeria in 1957 to support national development. Through competence and integrity, he rose to become the fourth Chief Justice of Nigeria,” he said. “His story is one we proudly share as a symbol of the deep, historic connection between our two nations.”
To conclude the evening, President Tinubu held a meet-and-greet with members of the Nigerian community, offering personal handshakes and words of encouragement before his departure.
