I Inherited a Nearly Bankrupt Nigeria – Tinubu Tells Diaspora

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said he met a country that was almost bankrupt when he assumed office in 2023.

Speaking to Nigerians living in Saint Lucia during an interactive session on Wednesday at the Windjammer Resort in Castries, Tinubu said, “We inherited a country that was near bankruptcy.”

He told the gathering, which included professionals, students, and religious leaders, that the economy has begun to recover, crediting what he called difficult decisions taken by his administration.

“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,” Tinubu said.

He acknowledged that despite the government’s efforts, the country’s per capita income remains low.

“For the professionals living here, our government will not abandon you. But you must work hard. It is our job to help you succeed,” he added.

The event, facilitated by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission and its Chairperson, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, was the second such meeting in two days. The first was held at the official residence of the Saint Lucian Prime Minister, Philip J. Pierre.

Dabiri-Erewa commended the diaspora for their contributions to their host country. “Nigeria is proud of what you contribute to Saint Lucia,” she said, thanking the President for creating space to interact directly with citizens abroad.

However, some participants used the platform to raise concerns about Nigeria’s lack of diplomatic presence in the country and the burdensome cost of staying legal.

Smart Duah, President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation, said, “We pay $2,500 every year for a work permit. It is too much.”

He urged Tinubu to consider opening a Nigerian mission in Saint Lucia to ease their struggles.

Responding, Tinubu said the government was aware of the issue and working diplomatically to address it.

Dr. Olugbemisola Ogunlusi, a Nigerian paediatrician who has lived in Saint Lucia for nearly 20 years, said, “Since you arrived, you have propagated Nigeria more than we ever thought.”

She added that she and her husband, who now heads a federal medical centre in Nigeria, have children who also became doctors.

A Nigerian Catholic priest in Saint Lucia, Father Festus Iwuagwu, said, “This turnout shows how much people here respect and love you.”

Tinubu urged Nigerians abroad to remain law-abiding and uphold the country’s reputation.

“My plea to you all: continue to be of good behaviour, don’t break the law,” he said.

Reflecting on his student days in the U.S., Tinubu said, “Life is about working hard, being consistent.”

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