Official Statement from the Honourable Samal Duggins, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Marine Resources, Sports, Small Business, Entrepreneurship, Cooperatives, and the Creative Economy

The postponement of the highly anticipated Nigeria x St. Kitts and Nevis Exchange Opening Ceremony, Business Expo, and International Friendly Football match, originally slated for May 30, 2025, has been announced with deep regret. The delay stems from unforeseen technical issues with the Nigerian delegation’s aircraft, preventing their timely arrival in St. Kitts and Nevis. This collaborative initiative, built upon two landmark Memoranda of Understanding signed earlier in 2025, focusing on Agriculture and the Creative Economy, signifies a pivotal partnership between the two nations. It represents a shared vision for innovation, cultural exchange, and economic advancement, highlighting the potential for synergistic growth between Africa and the Caribbean.

The Exchange program was designed to be a multifaceted event, encompassing a ceremonial opening, a business expo showcasing opportunities in both nations, and a symbolic football match fostering camaraderie and friendly competition. The meticulous planning and preparation invested by both sides aimed to create a platform for meaningful engagement, fostering connections between entrepreneurs, artists, business leaders, and citizens of both nations. The unfortunate postponement disrupts this carefully orchestrated schedule, impacting the numerous stakeholders who had invested time, resources, and anticipation in the event.

Despite this setback, the commitment to the partnership remains unwavering. The organizers are determined to reschedule the entire program at the earliest convenient time, ensuring the momentum generated by the initial planning is not lost. The foundation laid by the signed Memoranda of Understanding remains strong, signifying a lasting commitment to collaboration in agriculture and the creative economy. The shared vision of fostering innovation, promoting cultural understanding, and driving economic growth continues to be the driving force behind this partnership.

The organizers express their sincere gratitude to all those who contributed to the planning and organization of the event, including the dedicated teams from both nations, local entrepreneurs, artists, business leaders, and citizens who enthusiastically embraced the initiative. Their collective efforts underscore the importance placed on regional and international collaboration, demonstrating a shared belief in the power of partnership to drive positive change. This postponement, while disappointing, serves as a testament to the complex logistical considerations inherent in international collaborations.

The core objectives of the Exchange program remain central to the rescheduled event. The business expo will aim to showcase investment opportunities, facilitate business matchmaking, and promote trade between Nigeria and St. Kitts and Nevis, particularly in the agricultural and creative sectors. It will provide a platform for entrepreneurs and businesses to connect, explore potential partnerships, and contribute to the economic growth of both nations. The cultural exchange component will highlight the rich artistic heritage of both countries, fostering understanding and appreciation through artistic performances, exhibitions, and workshops.

The rescheduled program will also retain the international friendly football match, symbolizing the spirit of unity and friendly competition between the two nations. This sporting event will serve as a platform for cultural exchange and camaraderie, transcending geographical boundaries and promoting people-to-people connections. The organizers are committed to delivering an experience that is impactful, inspiring, and truly representative of the potential for collaboration between Africa and the Caribbean. The postponement, while unfortunate, will not diminish the significance of this partnership or the transformative potential it holds for both nations. The rescheduled event will strive to capture the original vision and deliver an experience that fosters lasting connections and promotes mutual growth.