Basseterre, Saint Kitts, March 31, 2026 (SKNIS): The Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas, Senior Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, underscored the strengthening relationship between Saint Kitts and Nevis and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, pointing to renewed efforts to advance cooperation in key sectors that directly impact the lives of citizens.
During the Prime Minister’s Press Conference with Cabinet Ministers held at NEMA on March 30, 2026, Senior Minister Douglas highlighted the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement and follow-through on recent discussions in education, trade, investment, and more.
He welcomed the announcement of a special envoy to advance initiatives arising from recent high-level engagements, noting that this step builds on the long-standing diplomatic ties established between the two nations, including the opening of a commission in Abuja in 2014. The move, he indicated, signals a more structured and focused approach to deepening bilateral cooperation.
Among the areas identified for growth, Senior Minister Douglas pointed to the creative industry as a promising avenue for economic expansion and collaboration.
“One of the areas that we identified in our consultation just last week [during the 12th UK Caribbean Forum in London] was the creative industry,” said Senior Minister Douglas. “So, it is very pleasing that the creative industry is one of those specific areas where we will see continued exchange of ideas and possible investment opportunities so that we can properly develop this particular area. So that we can, in turn, provide the basic framework within which we can pursue the economic partnership agreements that we have signed with the United Kingdom and Europe, as we continue to work with these countries in Europe that have had a colonial relationship with us in the past. So that is going to be important.”
He also highlighted the tangible benefits already being realised through collaboration with Nigeria, particularly in addressing human resource needs in critical sectors such as health and education.
“In fact, after we attended the meeting of the Caribbean and Africans in Ethiopia a few months ago, I made a stop on my return to Saint Kitts and Nevis in Abuja and had discussions with the foreign minister there in Nigeria, and he was able to put me in touch immediately when I was there with the overseas training structure that they have,” said Dr. Douglas. “As a result of that, in a matter of about six weeks after that, we had a contingent of Nigerians arriving here as doctors and nurses and teachers who are presently functional within our own system. So, I’m pleased to know that this is yet another opportunity to expand that and to find further support in areas where we have serious shortage, that technical shortage and professional shortage, that they can provide the necessary supplement, and thus continue to build our basic infrastructure and thus improve on the development of Saint Kitts.”
Senior Minister Douglas’ remarks reflect a broader commitment by the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis to pursue strategic international partnerships that deliver real benefits for its people, strengthening national capacity while opening new pathways for sustainable growth.
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