President Bola Tinubu has described education as the most powerful tool for overcoming poverty and urged students at Saint Lucia’s Sir Arthur Lewis Community College to be bold, disciplined, and committed to learning.
Speaking on Tuesday during a visit to the college, Tinubu emphasised that young people have a vital role in shaping a united Afro-Caribbean future. “Nothing like education can fight poverty. If anybody tells you that education is not crucial, ask the person to try ignorance,” he said.
He cautioned students against over-reliance on artificial intelligence, encouraging them to develop strong analytical skills and embrace perseverance. “Don’t depend on AI technology to find you the solution. Go through it like a recipe in the kitchen—step by step. Then you solve the problem, and you will feel satisfaction and pride in your achievement.”
Tinubu’s visit came a day after he launched a new scholarship programme for students from member states of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to study at Nigerian universities starting next academic year. He also proposed visa waivers for holders of diplomatic and official passports.
On Monday evening, Saint Lucia conferred upon him the title of Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia (K.C.S.L.), in recognition of his efforts to strengthen Afro-Caribbean ties.
At the college, President Tinubu also offered to sponsor a cultural exchange visit for the school’s performing arts group, who had earlier staged a performance of The Drum Maker, based on a work by Saint Lucian playwright Kendel Hippolyte. “I offer a trip—at their convenience—for the performing arts group to come and mix with the talents that we have in Nigeria,” he said.
He called on students to embrace critical thinking, time management, and discipline, and not to take for granted the education they receive. “What you get out of this college is your own. Use it to achieve anything in life. Just be determined, consistent, and bold.”
Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to Afrocentric collaboration, cultural exchange, and South-South cooperation. “Nigeria will collaborate with Saint Lucia to make a difference in the lives of our Black race. In our national anthem, we pledge to hand over a banner without stain to the next generation. We will give you that banner if you work hard, honestly, and consistently.”
Warm Reception and Enduring Ties
Saint Lucian Minister for Education, Edward Shadrack, described Tinubu’s visit as a strong symbol of shared identity and future aspirations between Africa and the Caribbean. “Today’s gathering symbolises more than a diplomatic visit. It reflects our shared belief in the power of education to bridge continents,” he said.
Cletus Springer, Chairman of the College’s Board of Governors, called for deeper partnerships between Saint Lucian and Nigerian academic institutions, particularly in research, faculty exchanges, and vocational training. He thanked Tinubu for offering scholarships and for personally engaging with the student body.
“Your presence is inspiring. Of all your official visit options, you prioritised meeting our students. We are touched,” Springer remarked. He also reflected on the legacy of Saint Lucian-born Sir Arthur Lewis and Sir Darnley Alexander, former Chief Justice of Nigeria, as symbols of historic bonds between both nations.
Naeem Philbert, President of the Students’ Council, said Tinubu’s visit was more than ceremonial. “Today is not just about diplomatic formality—it is a quiet yet powerful affirmation that we have not forgotten one another. Nigeria is not foreign. It is family.”
Philbert thanked the President for the scholarship initiative, calling it “a promise of possibility” for Caribbean youth.
President Tinubu was accompanied by Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa; Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal; Director-General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, Hon. Yusuf Yakub; and Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
Before leaving, President Tinubu paid respects at the gravesite of Sir Arthur Lewis, located within the college grounds.