10 things to know about Saint Lucia amid Tinubu’s visit

As President Bola Tinubu embarks on a historic state visit to Saint Lucia, many Nigerians and international observers are turning their attention to this stunning Caribbean island. But beyond its lush scenery and warm hospitality, Saint Lucia holds fascinating historical, cultural, and geopolitical significance.

Here are ten interesting facts you should know about Saint Lucia:

1. Named After a Female Saint — A Global First

Saint Lucia is the only country in the world named after a woman — Saint Lucy of Syracuse. The island was so named by French colonisers in the 1600s after shipwreck survivors landed there on her feast day.

2. Home to the Majestic Pitons

The island is famous for the Gros Piton and Petit Piton, two volcanic spires that rise dramatically out of the sea. These iconic peaks are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a top tourist attraction.

3. A Small Island, Big on Culture

With a population of just over 180,000, Saint Lucia punches above its weight in terms of culture. It hosts the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival, one of the most renowned music events in the Caribbean, attracting global acts.

4. A Rich Blend of African and European Roots

Saint Lucia’s culture is a vibrant mix of African, French, and British influences — evident in its food, music, language (Creole/Patois), and spiritual practices. Many Saint Lucians trace their roots directly to West Africa, including Nigeria.

5. The Nobel Prize Island

Saint Lucia has produced two Nobel Laureates, making it the country with the highest per capita number of Nobel Prize winners. They are economist Sir Arthur Lewis (1979) and poet Derek Walcott (1992).

6. Part of the Commonwealth and OECS

Saint Lucia is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations and plays an active role in the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). It uses the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$) and shares legal, judicial, and economic institutions with its neighbours.

7. Mountains, Rainforests, and a Drive-In Volcano

Apart from its beaches, Saint Lucia boasts volcanic hot springs, dense rainforests, and Sulphur Springs, the world’s only “drive-in volcano,” where visitors can drive right up to bubbling geothermal activity.

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8. Speaks English (Officially), But Also French Creole

While English is the official language, most Saint Lucians speak Saint Lucian Creole French (Kwéyòl) — a dialect similar to Nigerian Pidgin in function, used for informal communication and cultural identity.

9. Strong Diplomatic Ties with Africa

Saint Lucia is among Caribbean nations with increasing diplomatic and cultural exchanges with African countries. It supports AU’s Sixth Region agenda, which seeks to formally integrate the African diaspora into continental decision-making.

10. A Popular Destination for Nigerians Abroad

In recent years, Saint Lucia has emerged as a dual citizenship destination for high-net-worth Africans, including Nigerians, through its Citizenship-by-Investment Programme. Its scenic landscape, stable politics, and tax-friendly policies have attracted investors globally.

President Tinubu’s state visit — the first by a Nigerian head of state to Saint Lucia — is being hailed as a moment of reconnection between Africa and its diaspora in the Caribbean. The visit not only underscores cultural heritage but also opens a door for greater economic collaboration.