By Ayo Ayodele
In a historic gesture underscoring deepening ties between Africa and the Caribbean, Saint Lucia has awarded its highest national honour, the Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia (KCOSL), to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria.
The prestigious honour was conferred on President Tinubu by Governor-General Errol Charles during a formal investiture at the Government House in Morne Fortune on Monday night, marking a key highlight of President Tinubu’s state visit to the Caribbean nation.
With the award, the Nigerian leader will now bear the honorific title Sir Bola Ahmed Tinubu, KCOSL (Hon.), in recognition of his leadership on the African continent and efforts to rekindle historical and cultural links between Africa and the Caribbean.
“I came here as a president, but I’m leaving as a knight,” President Tinubu declared in an emotional acceptance speech. “I am greatly honoured, on behalf of my country and the nearly 220 million Nigerians I represent, to receive this title.”
The President described the experience as “thrilling and exciting,” applauding the warmth and hospitality extended to him by the Saint Lucian people. “You are great people,” he said. “This honour is not only for me but also for Nigeria and the entire black race.”
During his remarks, President Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to fostering greater cooperation between Nigeria and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), particularly in areas such as trade, education, cultural exchange, and climate resilience.
“I addressed your Parliament earlier today and promised to enhance our connectivity and economic opportunities,” he said. “We must overcome the legacy of separation and resume cultural exchanges with renewed purpose.”
Governor-General Charles said the honour reflects Saint Lucia’s appreciation for President Tinubu’s dedication to South-South cooperation and shared prosperity. “This knighthood acknowledges your role in building bridges between our peoples,” he stated.
Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing Saint Lucia’s African heritage and the importance of reinforcing connections with the continent. “For us in the OECS, part of our identity lies in Africa. We are proud of it and determined to strengthen it,” he said.
The visit, described as historic by both leaders, was also a poignant reflection on the transatlantic journey that binds the people of Saint Lucia to their African ancestry. “This visit is not just diplomatic; it is familial,” the Governor-General noted.
The knighthood places President Tinubu among a distinguished group of global leaders recognized for fostering unity and cooperation across regions and peoples.