President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been honoured with the title of Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia (KCOSL) by the government of Saint Lucia, in recognition of his leadership and efforts to deepen Africa-Caribbean relations.
The investiture ceremony, held Monday night at the Government House in Morne Fortune, was performed by the Governor-General of Saint Lucia, Errol Charles, during a state reception marking President Tinubu’s official visit to the island nation.
“I came here as a President, but I’m leaving as a Knight,” Tinubu said during his acceptance speech. “On behalf of nearly 220 million Nigerians, I express my profound gratitude for this immense honour.”
With this decoration, President Tinubu will henceforth be referred to as Sir Bola Ahmed Tinubu, KCOSL (Hon.), Commander-in-Chief of Nigeria’s Armed Forces.
Recognition of Leadership and Pan-African Engagement
Governor-General Charles said the honour acknowledges Tinubu’s “ongoing efforts to promote Africa-Caribbean cooperation,” particularly in areas such as trade, education, healthcare, climate resilience, and cultural exchange.
Describing the moment as “thrilling and exciting,” President Tinubu praised the hospitality of the Saint Lucian people and reaffirmed his commitment to fostering stronger bilateral and regional ties.
“I addressed the Parliament earlier today and pledged to enhance connectivity, boost economic opportunities, and bridge the gaps created by centuries of separation,” he told dignitaries.
‘The Black Race Is Not Lazy’
Highlighting the shared history between Africa and the Caribbean, Tinubu declared,
“The Black race is not lazy. We are hard-working and honest. Given the opportunity, we can excel.”
The Governor-General described Tinubu’s visit as historic, particularly for Saint Lucians whose ancestors trace their roots to West Africa.
“This occasion carries deep symbolism, especially for our people whose forebears were forcibly taken from Africa and brought to these shores centuries ago,” Charles said.
OECS Ties Strengthened Through Education and Diplomacy
As part of his visit, President Tinubu unveiled a new scholarship initiative that will allow students from Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) member countries to study at Nigerian universities starting in the next academic year.
He also proposed visa waivers for holders of diplomatic and official passports from OECS countries moves welcomed by local leaders as signs of genuine partnership.
At a special joint session of the Saint Lucian Senate and House of Assembly, held earlier at the William Jefferson Clinton Ballroom, Gros Islet, Tinubu called for renewed African-Caribbean solidarity.
“We are only eight hours apart. It’s time to strengthen the links between our peoples and share in the richness of what Africa has to offer,” said Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip Pierre.
Pierre also applauded Tinubu’s commitment to building bridges across the Atlantic, saying the two regions must move beyond history and embrace shared prosperity.
First Leg of Caribbean-South America Tour
The visit to Saint Lucia is the first stop in President Tinubu’s two-nation tour of the Caribbean and South America. He arrived in Vieux Fort on Saturday, launching a diplomatic mission aimed at reconnecting Africa with its diaspora in the Americas.
