In a significant diplomatic move, Nigeria has officially welcomed a high-level government delegation from the Caribbean nation of St Kitts and Nevis. This landmark visit comes just weeks after the two countries established a visa-free travel arrangement, a first for Nigeria with a nation outside of Africa and the ECOWAS bloc.
A Historic Milestone for Global African Cooperation
The 20-member delegation, which arrived yesterday, was led by Samal Mojah Duggins, the Minister of Agriculture. The high-ranking group also included Dr. Geoffrey Ian Hanley, the Deputy Prime Minister, and Lanien Blanchette, the Speaker of the National Assembly.
This groundbreaking agreement, which grants citizens of St Kitts and Nevis unrestricted access to Nigeria, is being hailed as more than just a policy change. It represents a powerful signal of intent to strengthen ties between Africa and the Caribbean, uniting Global African communities for shared progress.
Private Sector Leadership Drives Agreement
The visit was facilitated in partnership with Aquarian Consult, highlighting the crucial role of the private sector in advancing international cooperation. The breakthrough was brokered by Nigerian business leader Aisha Maina, CEO of Aquarian Consult, whose leadership during the Afri-Caribbean Investment Summit (AACIS ’25) was instrumental.
"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 Aisha Maina. "Global investors should take note: this is the beginning of a powerful alliance built on the strength of Global African people."
Focus on Future Collaboration and Investment
The delegation's agenda is packed with high-level meetings involving both government and private sector representatives. Discussions are centred on accelerating diplomatic and economic ties following the landmark policy shift.
Key sectors identified for collaboration include:
- Agribusiness and food security
- Technology and innovation
- The creative industries and cultural exchange
- Youth empowerment programmes
Samal Mojah Duggins, St. Kitts and Nevis Minister of Agriculture, stated: "This partnership 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 up new avenues for South-South cooperation. It leverages Nigeria's position as Africa's economic powerhouse and St. Kitts and Nevis's strategic Citizenship by Investment programme. Expanded outcomes from this new alliance are expected to be showcased at the AACIS ’26 summit in Abuja next March.
