Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip Pierre has fiercely condemned criticism of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s recent state visit to the island nation, describing the backlash as “shameful” and emblematic of a “slavery mentality.” The remarks, delivered during a speech marking Saint Lucia’s 2025 Emancipation Day, sought to rebuke opposition-aligned critics who questioned the diplomatic significance of the June 29 visit.
Tinubu’s trip, aimed at bolstering South-South cooperation between Nigeria and Caribbean nations, resulted in multiple agreements designed to strengthen economic, educational, and cultural ties. However, the visit faced unexpected scrutiny from local groups, which Pierre asserted were “tacitly supported” by political opponents seeking to undermine the initiative. “The vilification of President Tinubu demonstrates the harmful legacy of slavery: self-hate and the false belief in African inferiority,” he said during the event in Castries, which commemorated the 191st anniversary of slavery’s abolition in the British Empire.
The prime minister contrasted the treatment of Tinubu with what he suggested would have been a more respectful reception for a non-African leader. “That behavior was nothing short of disgraceful,” he added, emphasizing the visit’s tangible outcomes, including memoranda of understanding (MOUs) signed with Nigeria and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Pierre pledged to expedite implementation of the agreements, spanning trade, social development, and cultural exchange.
While celebrating Saint Lucia’s progress since emancipation in 1834, Pierre warned that colonial-era mentalities still hinder regional unity. “Slavery’s legacy lingers in our systems and minds,” he said, citing internalized inferiority and divisive colonial values as barriers to progress. He urged stronger collaboration between Africa and the Caribbean to advance shared goals of economic empowerment and cultural pride, framing Tinubu’s visit as a catalyst for renewed solidarity.
The speech also acknowledged the symbolic weight of hosting Nigeria’s leader during Emancipation Day observations, which honor ancestors’ struggles while advocating for future progress. “We are not only looking back—we are reaching forward,” Pierre stated, underscoring the need to address systemic inequities through Pan-African partnerships. Critics, however, have yet to respond publicly to his allegations of political motives behind their skepticism.
Tinubu’s delegation expressed gratitude for Saint Lucia’s hospitality, with both nations reaffirming commitments to deepen ties. As Caribbean and African leaders increasingly prioritize South-South cooperation, the fallout from this visit highlights broader debates about postcolonial identity and the challenges of transcending historical divides.
