President Bola Tinubu has said his administration has curtailed crude oil smuggling and stabilised Nigeria’s economy, which he described as being on the brink of bankruptcy when he assumed office.
Speaking during an interactive session with Nigerians in Saint Lucia on Wednesday, Tinubu said key reforms by his government had restored confidence in the economy.
“We inherited a country that was near bankruptcy, but we have been able to rescue the economy. Nigeria has recovered. We have made the smuggling of our oil unattractive. We have stopped chasing forex papers at the Central Bank of Nigeria,” he said.
The President met with members of the Nigerian community at the Windjammer Resort in Castries, his residence during the state visit. It was his second such meeting, following a similar session on Tuesday at the official residence of Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip Pierre.
Tinubu assured the diaspora community that efforts were underway to raise per capita income and improve livelihoods, despite current economic challenges.
He commended the Nigerians in Saint Lucia for their good conduct, saying he had received positive feedback about their contributions.
“My plea to you all: continue to be of good behaviour. Don’t break the law,” he urged.
Reflecting on his early life in the United States, Tinubu encouraged the community to stay focused and work hard.
“Life is about working hard and being consistent. Our government will not abandon you. But you must also do your part. It is our job to help you succeed,” he said.
The meeting was facilitated by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), led by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, and attended by professionals and students from the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia.
Dabiri-Erewa praised their achievements and urged them to remain connected to Nigeria.
President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO), Smart Duah, appealed to the President to address key issues facing Nigerians in the country, including the annual $2,500 work permit fee.
He also called for a Nigerian diplomatic mission in Saint Lucia—a request Tinubu promised to address.
Father Festus Iwuagwu, a Nigerian Catholic priest, described the turnout as a reflection of the community’s support for the President.
Paediatrician Dr Olugbemisola Ogunlusi, who relocated from Nigeria nearly two decades ago, also lauded the visit, saying, “Since you arrived, you have propagated Nigeria more than we ever thought.” She noted that her children, raised in Saint Lucia, are now medical doctors, while her husband returned home to serve as chief medical director of a federal medical centre.
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