President Bola Tinubu is expected to depart Nigeria for Saint Lucia on June 28 for official engagements and private leisure time.
The president’s trip to the Caribbean Island comes amid growing outrage in Nigeria over a spike in deadly violence that left nearly 200 people dead in Benue on June 14.
Philip J. Pierre, the Caribbean prime minister, announced the trip at a pre-cabinet press briefing on Monday, according to St Lucia Times, local media.
“Two of these days, June 30 and July 1, will be dedicated to an official visit, with the remainder of the trip set aside as a personal vacation for president Tinubu,” the prime minister said.
“I believe that the visit of the president of Nigeria represents a unique and historic opportunity to deepen the bonds between Africa and the Caribbean.
These long-standing cultural and historical connections compel us to continue nurturing and expanding our partnerships with Africa in ways that are meaningful, strategic and sustainable.”
Pierre said he has extended invitations to all heads of government of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to visit Saint Lucia during the official leg of Tinubu’s trip for formal talks.
