President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on students in Saint Lucia to use education as a tool to build a prosperous and united Afro-Caribbean future. He delivered this message while speaking at the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in Morne Fortune on the fourth day of his State Visit to the island nation.
According to a statement by Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the Nigerian leader emphasized the transformative power of education in fostering resilience, economic progress, and cultural cohesion among Afro-Caribbean societies.
Celebrating Academic Excellence and Cultural Exchange
President Tinubu commended the college, named after Nobel Laureate Sir Arthur Lewis, as a beacon of academic distinction and social progress. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to stronger partnerships with Saint Lucia in education, culture, and technology.
In a gesture to deepen cultural ties, the President announced an exchange opportunity for the college’s performing arts group, following their presentation of The Drum Maker, a play inspired by Saint Lucian playwright Kendel Hippolyte.
“I offer a trip—at your convenience—to the performing arts group to visit Nigeria and engage with our creative talents,” Tinubu stated.
Education: A Tool to Defeat Poverty
Urging students to be bold, curious, and consistent in their academic journey, Tinubu stressed that education remains the strongest weapon against poverty.
“If anyone tells you education isn’t important, ask them to try ignorance,” he said, highlighting perseverance, critical thinking, and time management as keys to success.
He also cautioned against over-reliance on artificial intelligence for problem-solving, encouraging students to embrace hands-on learning.
“Don’t let AI do the thinking for you. Approach every problem step by step—like following a recipe. That’s where true satisfaction and growth lie.”
Reinforcing Afrocentric Partnerships
President Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to advancing South-South cooperation rooted in shared African heritage and solidarity.
“Nigeria will collaborate with Saint Lucia to uplift the Black race. We are committed to passing on a clean and honorable legacy to future generations—if you work honestly and consistently.”
Warm Reception and Affirmation of Unity
Saint Lucia’s Minister for Education, Edward Shadrack, welcomed the Nigerian leader, calling his visit a reaffirmation of Afro-Caribbean bonds.
“Your presence reflects our belief in education as a bridge between continents and cultures,” Shadrack said.
Cletus Springer, Chairman of the college’s board, advocated for deeper institutional ties between SALCC and Nigerian universities, while Students’ Council President Naeem Philbert described the visit as a spiritual homecoming.
“This is more than diplomacy—it’s a powerful reminder that our stories remain connected across oceans. Nigeria isn’t foreign to us; it’s family,” Philbert added.
Honoring a Legacy
Before leaving, President Tinubu paid tribute at the gravesite of Sir Arthur Lewis, whose legacy of intellectual leadership continues to inspire generations across the Caribbean and Africa.
He was accompanied by Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Environment Balarabe Lawal, Technical Aid Corps Director-General Yusuf Yakub, and Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
