During President Bola Tinubu’s historic visit, Alvina Reynolds, President of the Saint Lucian Senate, highlighted the deep ancestral links between Nigeria and Saint Lucia. Citing an 1815 British census, she revealed that over a third of enslaved people on the island originated from Nigeria, emphasizing the enduring cultural bond shaped by the transatlantic slave trade.

In a joint session of the Lucian bicameral parliament, Reynolds described Tinubu’s presence as a “mission to reunite us with our homeland,” referencing the contributions of notable figures like Sir Darnley Alexander, the only non-Nigerian to serve as Nigeria’s Chief Justice. She praised the ongoing support from Nigerian priests in Saint Lucia and commemorated World Parliament Day, recognizing democracy and governance.

Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre echoed these sentiments, celebrating the symbolic nature of Tinubu’s visit as a moment of “freedom and celebration.” He reaffirmed the unbreakable ties between Saint Lucia and West Africa, likening the island to “a small fragment of Africa” and acknowledging the significant contributions of the Nigerian community in various sectors.

Together, they underscored the importance of fostering deeper cooperation in tourism, healthcare, and cultural exchange, with hopes of enhancing air connectivity to boost tourism and trade. The dignitaries emphasized the potential for partnerships in creative industries and sports, aiming for a collaborative future as they work towards the next Africa-CARICOM summit.