TINUBU URGES GLOBAL BLACK UNITY DURING HISTORIC ST. LUCIA VISIT

In a powerful address delivered during a state dinner in his honour, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Africans and people of African descent around the world to unite in building a future of dignity, honour, and technological advancement for the black race. The event, hosted by the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Philip J. Pierre, on July 1st Tuesday night in Castries, highlighted both symbolic and practical dimensions of global black solidarity.
Speaking to an audience that included longstanding members of the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia, Tinubu acknowledged the painful legacy of forced dispersion of Africans through slavery and colonisation but urged the diaspora to channel that history into a united future.
“I’m unapologetically Afrocentric in my belief,” Tinubu declared. “We can work together, be together, enjoy what we have, and build a future of promise, honour, and dignity for the black race. One out of every five Black nationals is a Nigerian. We must harness that strength.”
He noted that innovation and industrialisation are crucial levers for achieving that vision and pledged Nigeria’s readiness to lead in technology-driven progress across Africa and the wider black world.
The Saint Lucian Prime Minister presented Tinubu with the prestigious Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia (K.C.O.S.L), honouring his statesmanship and leadership. “This honour is reserved for individuals of exceptional service, and our engagements with you have left no doubt that you are deserving,” Pierre said.
Pierre also lauded the integration of Nigerians living in Saint Lucia, praising their contributions to national development and highlighting the enduring legacy of cultural ties. “Your integration has been seamless,” he said, adding, “You are part of a proud legacy — like Sir Darnley Alexander, the Saint Lucian who became Nigeria’s Chief Justice from 1975 to 1979.”
President Tinubu, visibly moved by the gesture, took time after the dinner to personally greet each member of the Nigerian diaspora present, reaffirming his belief in the role of Nigerians abroad as key agents of national advancement.