President Bola Tinubu has said his administration has turned around what he described as a nearly bankrupt economy, citing major strides in curbing oil smuggling and sanitizing the foreign exchange system.
Speaking during a warm and intimate meeting with Nigerians living in Saint Lucia on Thursday, Tinubu didn’t shy away from acknowledging the tough road his government has had to travel—but stressed that significant progress has been made.
“We inherited a country that was near bankruptcy,” the President said. “But we have been able to rescue the economy. Nigeria has recovered. We have made the smuggling of our oil unattractive. We’ve also stopped the madness of chasing forex papers at the Central Bank.”
The meeting, held at the official residence of Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip J. Pierre, was part of Tinubu’s state visit to the Caribbean nation. A second round of engagement followed at the Windjammer Resort, where Tinubu is lodged.
During the sessions, the President assured Nigerians in Saint Lucia that his administration is also working to resolve certain diplomatic and logistical challenges they face. He emphasized that while Nigeria’s per capita income remains low, ongoing reforms are geared toward improving the lives of everyday citizens.
“I know things are still tough, but we’re working daily to ensure that the gains we’re making reach the people,” he said.
Facilitated by the Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the interaction gave diasporans a chance to hear directly from the President—and to share their own concerns.
Dabiri-Erewa praised the vibrant Nigerian community in Saint Lucia, commending their contributions to their host country. “NIDCOM is proud of you,” she said, urging them to continue being good ambassadors while never forgetting their roots.
For many in the room, the President’s visit was a welcome gesture—an opportunity to feel seen, heard, and reconnected to the homeland.
