Tinubu flags off scholarship for Eastern Caribbean students to study in Nigeria
...Programme to begin next academic year
...Joint Nigeria–OECS committee to finalise modalities
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the introduction of a scholarship scheme for students from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to pursue studies at Nigerian universities, with the first cohort scheduled to begin in the next academic session.
This was disclosed in a statement on Monday by Mr Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. The President made the announcement during a joint press conference with the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Hon. Philip J. Pierre, following a high-level working luncheon with OECS leaders in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia.
President Tinubu explained that the scholarship scheme is part of a wider framework for cooperation designed to deepen people-to-people engagement and expand access in education, trade, agriculture, food security, and overall development across both regions.
He also revealed that plans are under way to implement visa waivers for holders of diplomatic and official passports from OECS member states. This, he said, would facilitate easier movement and foster greater collaboration.
“The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States is very close to us in Africa,” the President said. “I thank them for the opportunity to address the joint session of Parliament and bring to life our aspirations to enhance business and education opportunities, build capacity, and explore avenues such as agriculture and food security.
“We must take advantage of the opportunities within our reach. We are moving forward from here. We won’t drop the ball,” he added.
According to the statement, the initiative will be coordinated by a joint implementation committee comprising representatives from both Nigeria and the OECS. This committee will be responsible for finalising operational arrangements to ensure the seamless integration of OECS students into Nigerian tertiary institutions.
President Tinubu reiterated his government’s commitment to the project and described the collaboration as a crucial opportunity that requires concrete follow-through.
In response to concerns about the viability of expanding bilateral cooperation in sectors such as trade, health, education, and climate resilience, the President expressed confidence in achieving tangible progress.
“I don’t look at difficulties. I focus on problem-solving. If we move in a straight line, we will meet our targets and avoid complications,” he said.
Prime Minister Pierre welcomed the scholarship programme, describing it as a “timely and practical expression of solidarity” between Nigeria and the Eastern Caribbean.
He confirmed that OECS students selected under the initiative would commence their academic programmes in Nigeria with the next school calendar, in line with President Tinubu’s directive.
He further stated that visa facilitation for Nigerian and OECS diplomatic officials would be prioritised by the Joint Committee. Additional focus areas include improving air connectivity, increasing trade, and strengthening tourism exchanges.
Earlier in the day, President Tinubu addressed a special joint session of the Saint Lucian Senate and House of Assembly, where he outlined a forward-looking vision for enhanced cooperation between Nigeria and OECS nations.
Prime Minister Pierre also announced the establishment of a Nigeria–OECS joint committee to manage shared concerns, particularly in education, travel, and regional economic integration.
“We had a high-level luncheon where the President laid out how the OECS can benefit from stronger ties with Nigeria. Our immediate focus will be on people-to-people exchanges,” Pierre added.