President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria was on the verge of economic collapse when he assumed office but said his administration has successfully steered the country away from bankruptcy through a series of bold reforms.
Speaking during an interactive session with Nigerians in Castries, Saint Lucia, the President revealed that his government inherited a nation in dire financial straits but has since implemented sweeping changes that have stabilised the economy and renewed investor confidence.
“We inherited a country that was near bankruptcy. But we have been able to rescue the economy. Nigeria has recovered,” Tinubu said, according to a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The President, currently on a diplomatic visit to the Caribbean, said his administration has tackled oil smuggling and ended the practice of arbitrage in the foreign exchange market at the Central Bank of Nigeria.
“We have made the smuggling of our oil unattractive. We have stopped chasing forex papers at the Central Bank,” he added.
Tinubu admitted that despite the positive strides, challenges remain. He acknowledged the country’s low per capita income but promised that policies are being pursued to ensure long-term economic growth and inclusiveness.
He assured Nigerian professionals in Saint Lucia that his government would continue to support their efforts while urging them to remain hardworking and law-abiding.
“It is our job to help you succeed. But you must work hard,” he said.
The President’s engagement in Saint Lucia is part of a broader outreach to the Nigerian diaspora. The meeting, organised by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission and chaired by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, brought together professionals, students, religious leaders, and other citizens.
Dabiri-Erewa praised the contributions of Nigerians in the Caribbean nation and urged them to maintain strong ties with their homeland.
During the session, diaspora leaders raised concerns over the high cost of work permits—reportedly $2,500 annually—and the absence of a Nigerian diplomatic mission in Saint Lucia.
Smart Duah, President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation, appealed to the President to take urgent steps in addressing these issues.
Tinubu responded by assuring that diplomatic processes are already underway to ease their burden.
The session also witnessed emotional tributes and gestures of solidarity. A medical student and visual artist, Doris, presented a custom portrait of the President, while Nigerian priest Father Festus Iwuagwu commended the high turnout, describing it as evidence of respect for Tinubu.
Reflecting on his past, the President urged Nigerians abroad to stay focused and consistent.
“Life is about working hard, being consistent,” he said.
'
'
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
