Abuja: President Bola Tinubu is set to embark on a diplomatic journey on Saturday, visiting Saint Lucia and Brazil in a move to bolster international relations and economic cooperation.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the President’s first destination will be Saint Lucia, where he aims to strengthen ties with Caribbean nations and enhance South-South cooperation. During his visit, President Tinubu is expected to engage in several key activities, including courtesy calls on Governor-General Cyril Errol Melchiades Charles and Prime Minister Philip Pierre. A significant highlight of this visit will be his address to a special joint session of the Saint Lucian Senate and House of Assembly.
Furthermore, President Tinubu will participate in a high-level working luncheon with the Heads of Government of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). This luncheon will focus on exploring ways to deepen Nigeria-OECS cooperation in economic partnerships and cultural solidarity. Additionally, he is scheduled to visit the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in Castries to promote educational exchange and academic collaboration.
The News Agency of Nigeria notes that Nigeria and Saint Lucia share ties through the UN and Commonwealth, with mutual interests rooted in their African heritage. The visit aims to unlock opportunities in infrastructure, education, youth development, and diplomatic cooperation.
After his engagements in Saint Lucia, President Tinubu will proceed to Brazil to attend the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro from July 6 to 7. He will attend the summit at the invitation of Brazilian President Lula da Silva, recognising Nigeria as a BRICS ‘partner country.’ The summit, themed ‘Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance,’ will focus discussions on expanding cooperation in social, economic, and environmental development across the Global South.
President Tinubu will be accompanied by senior government officials on both visits, underscoring the importance of these diplomatic engagements.