Bob Chikwem Amadi, a Nigerian medical student at the American International University in Saint Lucia, has described his recent encounter with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Saint Lucian Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre as a profoundly inspiring moment in his academic journey.
Amadi, who is preparing to begin the clinical phase of his medical training, was part of the service team during President Tinubu’s courtesy visit to the Prime Minister’s official residence. He also works part-time as a talent and brand manager with a local catering and entertainment firm in Saint Lucia.
According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the Prime Minister’s staff had informed the Nigerian delegation that one of the service team members was a Nigerian student.
At the start of the bilateral meeting, Prime Minister Pierre introduced Amadi, a native of Rivers State, to President Tinubu. The Nigerian leader paused to engage the young man in a brief conversation, asking about his background and how he was faring. He also offered words of encouragement and wished him success in his studies and future endeavours.
Amadi was later invited to join both President Tinubu and Prime Minister Pierre for a group photograph, a moment he described as unforgettable.
“This is an inspiring moment for me. Saint Lucia is an amazing island. I will describe it as a wonderful place. They are a very contented society and things are relatively calm,” Amadi said.
Reflecting on the ties between Nigeria and Saint Lucia, he noted: “We have always hoped that there are many opportunities between Saint Lucia and Nigeria. We share similar food crops and culture, and the connection is deep.”
Amadi has lived in Saint Lucia for ten years. Having completed his four-year basic medical programme, he is now preparing for the next stage of his education.
President Tinubu’s visit to Saint Lucia forms part of a broader state tour of the Caribbean region, aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic cooperation between Nigeria and Caribbean nations.
MEETING TINUBU IS INSPIRING BY BOB CHIKWEM AMADI
