President Bola Tinubu has been conferred with the national honour of Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia (KCOSL) by the government of Saint Lucia.
The formal investiture was performed by the Governor-General of Saint Lucia, Errol Charles, during an official reception held at Government House, Morne Fortune.
The Governor-General said that the honour recognised Tinubu’s ongoing efforts to promote Africa-Caribbean cooperation across trade, education, healthcare, climate resilience, and cultural exchangem.
“With this investiture, he shall be known as Sir Bola Ahmed Tinubu, KCOSL (Hon.), President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
Responding, President Tinubu described the moment as “thrilling and exciting,” and praised the hospitality extended by the Saint Lucian people.
“It cannot be more thrilling, more exciting, and welcoming than that. You are great people,” he said, expressing appreciation to the Prime Minister and Governor-General for deeming him worthy of the honour.
“I came here as a president, but I’m leaving as a knight. I am greatly honoured, on behalf of my country, on behalf of nearly 220 million people in Nigeria, to stand before you to thank you very much,” President Tinubu said in his acceptance remarks.
The honour recognised President Tinubu’s leadership and contributions towards strengthening historical and cultural bonds between Africa and the Caribbean.
President Tinubu expressed gratitude to the Saint Lucian people, Prime Minister, and Governor-General for deeming him worthy of the honour.
He reaffirmed his commitment to building stronger ties between Nigeria and member states of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), pledging to foster cultural exchange and economic cooperation.
President Tinubu highlighted the shared history of both regions, stating that the Black race is not lazy, but hard-working and honest people who can excel given the opportunity.
With the investiture, President Tinubu shall be known as Sir Bola Tinubu, KCOSL (Hon.), President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The visit marked a significant step in strengthening Africa-Caribbean cooperation across trade, education, healthcare, climate resilience, and cultural exchange.
Meanwhile, President Tinubu approved a new scholarship scheme for students from OECS member states to study in Nigerian universities, beginning from the next academic year.
He proposed visa waivers for holders of diplomatic and official passports from OECS nations to enhance connectivity and business opportunities.
