President Bola Tinubu has once again left Nigeria for an international visit. He departed Abuja on Saturday for a trip to two countries—Saint Lucia in the Caribbean and Brazil in South America.
According to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, the visit aims to improve Nigeria’s connections with other nations, especially those in the Global South.
The statement explained that the purpose of the trip is to create new opportunities for building infrastructure, partnering in education, supporting youth programs, and boosting diplomatic relationships.
President Tinubu’s first stop is Saint Lucia, where he is making a formal state visit.
While in Saint Lucia, he is expected to meet top leaders of the country, including Governor-General Cyril Errol Melchiades Charles and Prime Minister Philip Pierre.
One of the main highlights of Tinubu’s visit will be his speech at a special session held by Saint Lucia’s Senate and House of Assembly. This event will take place at the Sandals Grande in Gros Islet.
The event will also be attended by leaders of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), diplomats, top officials, and Nigerians living in Saint Lucia.
After speaking to the lawmakers, Tinubu will have a special lunch meeting with OECS leaders. They will talk about ways to work together more closely on business and culture between Nigeria and the Caribbean region.
He will also visit the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in Castries, where he is expected to talk about educational partnerships and student exchange programs.
The presidency explained that this visit supports the African Union’s vision to strengthen ties with the African diaspora, especially Caribbean nations, under the Sixth Region program.
After his stay in Saint Lucia, President Tinubu will head to Brazil. He is going there to attend the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, which will take place on July 6–7, 2025.
The summit invitation came from Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Nigeria has been invited as a “partner country” — a level higher than just being a guest.
Currently, South Africa, Egypt, and Ethiopia are full African members of BRICS. This year’s summit will focus on building stronger cooperation among countries in the Global South and creating fairer global systems.
Top Nigerian government officials are also joining President Tinubu on both legs of the trip.
