Nigeria and the Caribbean nation of Grenada are exploring deeper economic cooperation as both countries seek to strengthen trade, investment, tourism, education, healthcare and aviation ties.
Speaking in Lagos during an interactive session with journalists after a recent visit to Grenada, the Honorary Consul of Grenada in Nigeria, Mr. Bidemi Sonoiki, noted that relations between the two countries have grown significantly in recent years, evolving from shared historical and cultural connections into strategic economic and commercial partnerships.
Sonoiki explained that bilateral engagements have expanded considerably since the establishment of Grenada’s Honorary Consulate in Lagos in 2022, resulting in increased collaboration between public and private sector institutions in both countries.
A major highlight of the growing partnership is Grenada’s approval of visa-free access for Nigerian passport holders. According to the envoy, the Caribbean nation has formally communicated the decision to Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is awaiting reciprocal action from the Nigerian government through diplomatic channels.
He noted that the visa-free arrangement is expected to encourage business travel, tourism, educational exchanges and greater people-to-people interactions between citizens of both countries.
“I have a letter from Grenada’s foreign affairs authorities to Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Grenada has approved free access for Nigerians, and we expect Nigeria to reciprocate the gesture,” Sonoiki stated.
The Honorary Consul also disclosed that discussions are underway to establish a direct air link between Nigeria and Grenada, expressing optimism that a permanent route could commence operations within the next six months.
“Improved air connectivity would facilitate trade, tourism and the movement of goods and services between Africa and the Caribbean, while positioning Grenada as a gateway to the wider Caribbean market of about forty-six million people and Nigeria as a strategic entry point into Africa, he said.”
Sonoiki identified several sectors with strong potential for collaboration, including tourism, aviation, agriculture, healthcare, education, logistics, maritime services, renewable energy, real estate and financial technology.
He further highlighted the contributions of Nigerian professionals, particularly in the healthcare sector, through existing cooperation programmes, noting that such partnerships demonstrate the mutual benefits of stronger institutional ties.
Describing Grenada as a stable and investment-friendly destination with a low crime rate, the diplomat said the country’s economy, driven largely by tourism, offers opportunities for investors seeking to expand into the Caribbean region.
The development comes amid growing efforts to strengthen economic relations between Africa and the Caribbean, with stakeholders expressing optimism that enhanced connectivity, trade facilitation measures and institutional cooperation will unlock new opportunities for investment, job creation and sustainable economic growth across both regions.
Reporting By Ebere Obike