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Presidency Defends Tinubu’s Historic Visit to Saint Lucia as Gateway to Caribbean Ties, Culture, and Trade

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Presidency Defends Tinubu’s Historic Visit to Saint Lucia as Gateway to Caribbean Ties, Culture, and Trade

Presidency Defends Tinubu’s Historic Visit to Saint Lucia as Gateway to Caribbean Ties, Culture, and Trade

 

Abuja, Nigeria — The Presidency on Sunday defended President Bola Tinubu’s landmark state visit to Saint Lucia, describing it as a strategic move to deepen Nigeria’s cultural, diplomatic, and economic connections with the Caribbean and the broader CARICOM bloc.

Amid public criticism and mixed reactions on social media, Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, issued a detailed statement titled “Why President Tinubu is on a State Visit to Saint Lucia,” clarifying the purpose and significance of the trip.

“In the wake of some Nigerians’ misguided, mischievous, and uninformed comments… it is necessary to clarify the purpose of the visit,” the statement began.

Rekindling Ancestral Bonds, Expanding South-South Cooperation

The Presidency said the visit rekindles Nigeria’s ancestral and strategic ties with Saint Lucia, a country whose roots—like many Caribbean nations—are deeply linked to West Africa, especially Nigeria.

“In the mid-19th century, immigrants from present-day Nigeria arrived in Saint Lucia, bringing cultural and religious practices that persist today,” the statement noted.

Onanuga said Saint Lucia was thrilled to welcome the Nigerian leader, viewing the visit as an opportunity to ignite a new era of diplomacy, culture, and trade between the two nations.

The visit also aligns with Nigeria’s Four D’s Foreign Policy Strategy: Democracy, Development, Diaspora, and Demography, while advancing South-South cooperation.

Saint Lucia: A Strategic Caribbean Gateway

Saint Lucia is the headquarters of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and serves as a gateway to the 15-member CARICOM bloc, with a combined GDP of over $130 billion—a key focus area for Nigeria’s foreign trade and diplomatic expansion.

The Presidency cited historic ties, including the career of Sir Darnley Alexander, a Saint Lucian who served as Nigeria’s Chief Justice from 1975 to 1979. Recruited to Nigeria in 1957, Alexander rose through the legal ranks before becoming a key figure in Nigeria’s judiciary.

Other notable Saint Lucians with Nigerian connections include Neville Skeete, who helped design the Central Bank of Nigeria headquarters, and Michael Alexander, a frontline medic during the Nigerian Civil War.

Cultural Power and Diaspora Engagement

Tinubu’s visit also reinforces the African Union’s Sixth Region agenda, which recognises the African diaspora as an essential development partner.

“Our cultural exports—Afrobeats, Nollywood, and literature—are already influencing the Saint Lucian cultural scene,” the statement said, referencing the iconic Gros Islet Street Party, where Nigerian music now dominates.

On democratic alignment, the statement hailed Saint Lucia as a “natural ally” due to its stable parliamentary democracy and history of peaceful governance. A local broadcaster reportedly described President Tinubu as a “fighter for democracy” during his arrival.

Youth, Education, and Development Agenda

The visit also includes a stop at Sir Arthur Lewis Community College to explore educational partnerships, reflecting Tinubu’s focus on Nigeria’s youth population as a driver of innovation and transformation.

The Nigerian delegation includes members of the Technical Aid Corps, which deploys Nigerian professionals across Africa, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) countries to provide technical services and build capacity.

As part of the itinerary, the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia will host a reception for the Nigerian community on the island, creating a platform for direct interaction with the President and further cementing bilateral ties.

A Rare Honour for an African Leader

Saint Lucia, which gained independence in 1979, has hosted fewer than 10 official state visits in its history. The last African head of state to visit was Nelson Mandela in 1998 during the 19th CARICOM Heads of Government Summit.


President Tinubu’s state visit to Saint Lucia is not just symbolic—it is a calculated diplomatic move designed to reconnect ancestral roots, expand economic partnerships, and strengthen Nigeria’s cultural and political influence across the Caribbean.

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

 

The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.

The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.

Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.

Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.

As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.

 

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

 

Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

 

Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:

“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”

 

This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.

 

 

According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.

 

 

“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”

 

Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.

 

 

By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.

 

 

For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.

 

 

As one youth participant reflected:

“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”

 

The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.

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