In a significant diplomatic development, Nigeria has welcomed its first official government delegation from the Caribbean nation of St Kitts and Nevis, just weeks after the two countries established a groundbreaking visa-free travel arrangement.
A Historic Milestone in Afri-Caribbean Relations
The 20-member senior delegation, which arrived yesterday, was led by Samal Mojah Duggins, Minister of Agriculture, and included high-ranking officials such as Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Geoffrey Ian Hanley and Speaker of the National Assembly Lanien Blanchette. This visit marks the first since the historic policy change that grants citizens of St Kitts and Nevis unrestricted access to Nigeria.
This agreement represents a landmark achievement, making St Kitts and Nevis the first nation outside Africa and the ECOWAS economic community to enjoy such visa-free privileges with Nigeria. The arrangement signals a bold new chapter in connectivity and cooperation between Global African communities.
Private Sector Leadership Driving Change
The breakthrough was facilitated through partnership with Aquarian Consult, highlighting the crucial role of private sector leadership in advancing Afri-Caribbean cooperation. Nigerian business leader Aisha Maina, CEO of Aquarian Consult, played an instrumental role in brokering the agreement during the Afri-Caribbean Investment Summit (AACIS '25).
"This is more than a policy change, it's a signal to the world that Africa and the Caribbean are ready to collaborate on trade, investment, and cultural exchange," said Maina. "Global investors should take note: this is the beginning of a powerful alliance built on the strength of Global African people."
Future Prospects and Economic Opportunities
The delegation's agenda includes high-level government and private sector meetings focused on accelerating diplomatic and economic ties following the landmark policy shift. Key discussion areas include:
- Agribusiness and food security initiatives
- Technology and creative industry collaborations
- Cultural exchange programmes
- Youth empowerment projects
Minister Duggins emphasised the partnership's significance, stating: "This represents a bold step toward a future where Africa and the Caribbean collaborate as equals in trade, culture, and innovation, uniting global African efforts for shared prosperity."
For international business leaders, this development opens new opportunities in South-South cooperation, leveraging Nigeria's position as Africa's economic gateway alongside St Kitts and Nevis' strategic Citizenship by Investment programme. Expanded outcomes are anticipated at the upcoming AACIS '26 summit scheduled for next March in Abuja.
