President Bola Tinubu has revealed that his administration has successfully rescued Nigeria’s economy from the brink of collapse, assuring Nigerians living in Saint Lucia that significant reforms are stabilizing the country and reviving investor confidence. Speaking during an interactive session with members of the Nigerian community at the Windjammer Resort in Castries, Tinubu highlighted the difficult economic situation his administration inherited and the steps taken to reverse it.
According to Tinubu, the country was near bankruptcy when he assumed office, but his administration has been able to rescue the economy through various reforms. “We inherited a country that was near bankruptcy,” he said. “But we have been able to rescue the economy. Nigeria has recovered. We have made the smuggling of our oil unattractive. We have stopped chasing forex papers at the Central Bank of Nigeria.”
The President acknowledged that although Nigeria’s per capita income remains low, his government is implementing policies to drive inclusive growth and long-term economic stability. He urged Nigerians living in Saint Lucia to continue projecting a positive image of Nigeria and remain law-abiding. “My plea to you all: continue to be of good behaviour, don’t break the law,” he said.
Tinubu also advised the community to remain focused, consistent, and hardworking, reflecting on his own experiences as a student in the United States over five decades ago. “Life is about working hard, being consistent,” he said. The President’s remarks were well-received by the community, with Father Festus Iwuagwu, a Nigerian priest based in Saint Lucia, praising the high turnout at the meeting as a testament to the respect and affection Nigerians in the country have for the President.
The interactive session was organized by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, led by Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa, and provided an opportunity for the President to directly engage with citizens abroad. The community presented the President with a custom portrait created by Doris, a medical student and visual artist based in Saint Lucia, as a token of appreciation.
