NIGERIA: Saint Lucia Confers Highest Honour On President Tinubu

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

Saint Lucia has awarded its highest national honour, the Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia (KCOSL), to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The honour was presented during a state ceremony on Monday night at the Government House in Morne Fortune, Saint Lucia.

The investiture was performed by the Governor-General of Saint Lucia, Errol Charles.

This was made known in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.

President Tinubu, who is currently on a state visit to the Caribbean nation, expressed deep gratitude for the honour.

He said the recognition symbolised a renewed connection between Africa and the Caribbean, especially Nigeria and Saint Lucia.

“I came here as a president, but I am leaving as a knight,” Tinubu said.

He promised to build stronger ties between Nigeria and member states of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States.

Speaking at the ceremony, Tinubu described the experience as thrilling and praised the warmth of the Saint Lucian people.

He also addressed the Saint Lucian Parliament earlier that day, where he outlined plans to promote cultural and economic exchanges.

President Tinubu said it was time to reconnect Africa and the Caribbean through trade, creativity, and shared values.

He noted that the African and Caribbean peoples are industrious and capable of achieving prosperity through cooperation.

“The black race is not lazy. We are hardworking and honest people. Given the opportunity, we can excel,” he said.

The Governor-General said the award acknowledges Tinubu’s leadership on the African continent.

He said the honour also reflected the Caribbean nation’s appreciation of Tinubu’s commitment to fostering partnerships across trade, climate, education, healthcare, and culture.

He added that the honour confirmed a shared vision for global South unity rooted in history and common goals.

Governor-General Charles described the visit as historic and emotionally significant for Saint Lucians whose ancestors came from Africa.

Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Philip J. Pierre, praised Tinubu’s visit and acceptance of the honour.

He said Saint Lucia and the OECS are proud of their African roots and committed to strengthening ties with the continent.

“We want to develop that link and ensure that the people of both regions grow closer together,” he said.

He thanked President Tinubu for the visit and expressed hope that the relationship would blossom into deeper cooperation.