Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip Pierre, has criticised the backlash surrounding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent state visit to the country.
Gatekeepers News reports that addressing the public during his 2025 Emancipation Day speech, Pierre expressed disapproval over the way Tinubu’s visit was publicly condemned, describing the response as a reflection of lingering effects of slavery, including self-hate and internalized inferiority.
President Tinubu visited Saint Lucia from June 29 to July 4, where he held meetings with government officials and addressed a joint session of the country’s parliament.
However, his visit drew criticism both in Nigeria and Saint Lucia. In Nigeria, concerns were raised about the timing of the trip, particularly in light of a severe flood in Minna, Niger State, which resulted in significant casualties.
In Saint Lucia, opposition groups and journalists questioned the transparency of the bilateral agreements made during the visit, as well as the financial burden on taxpayers. The temporary closure of the country’s two major airports during Tinubu’s arrival also sparked discontent.
The United Workers Party, Saint Lucia’s opposition party, was among those who openly criticized the government over the disruptions caused.
Pierre responded firmly to the opposition’s stance, characterising their actions as disgraceful and politically motivated.
He maintained that the visit was a moment of pride for the Caribbean nation and emphasized Saint Lucia’s commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria.
Pierre reassured Nigerians that the government and people of Saint Lucia deeply appreciated Tinubu’s visit and viewed it as an important step toward fostering stronger economic and social cooperation between both nations.
