President Bola Tinubu has told Nigerians living in Saint Lucia that he inherited a nearly bankrupt country but has since taken bold steps to rescue and revive the Nigerian economy.
Speaking at a town hall meeting with the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia on Wednesday, Tinubu said his “administration has restored investor confidence and reduced economic risks.”
“We inherited a country that was near bankruptcy. But we have been able to rescue the economy. Nigeria has recovered. We have made the smuggling of our oil unattractive, and we have stopped chasing forex papers at the Central Bank of Nigeria,” the President said.
The meeting was held at the Windjammer Resort in Castries, Saint Lucia. It was part of the President’s visit to the Caribbean nation and was organised by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), led by Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, released a statement on the meeting on Thursday.
President Tinubu assured “the Nigerian professionals and students present that his government is focused on inclusive growth and long-term economic stability.”
“Our government will not abandon you. But you must work hard. It is our job to help you succeed,” he said.
Many in the Nigerian community raised concerns about the high cost of living and the lack of a Nigerian embassy in Saint Lucia.
Smart Duah, President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation, said “the $2,500 annual work permit fee was too high and asked the President to set up a diplomatic office in the country.”
In response, President Tinubu said that “the matter was being addressed through diplomatic channels.”
Abike Dabiri-Erewa praised the contributions of Nigerians in Saint Lucia.
“Nigeria is proud of what you contribute to Saint Lucia,” she said.
One of the attendees, Dr. Olugbemisola Ogunlusi, a paediatrician who moved to Saint Lucia nearly 20 years ago, thanked Tinubu for his visit.
“Since you arrived, you have promoted Nigeria more than we ever expected,” she said.
Father Festus Iwuagwu, a Nigerian Catholic priest in Saint Lucia, said the large turnout showed the community’s respect and affection for the President.
Tinubu advised the community to stay focused and law-abiding.
“My plea to you all: continue to be of good behaviour, don’t break the law. Life is about working hard, being consistent,” he said.