Nigeria joins BRICS as partner country
By Jeffrey Agbo
Brazil has officially announced Nigeria’s inclusion as a partner country in the BRICS alliance, solidifying its growing role in global economic and geopolitical discussions.
In a statement on Friday, Brazil’s foreign ministry confirmed the development, welcoming Nigeria’s decision to align with the group of leading emerging economies.
The BRICS alliance, initially comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has been expanding its scope with the introduction of a partner-country category at the 16th BRICS Summit held in Kazan in October 2024.
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Brazil’s announcement confirms Nigeria as the ninth partner country in the alliance, joining Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda and Uzbekistan.
The Brazilian foreign ministry highlighted Nigeria’s strategic importance, noting, “With the world’s sixth-largest population—and Africa’s largest—as well as being one of the continent’s major economies, Nigeria shares convergent interests with other members of BRICS. It plays an active role in strengthening South-South cooperation and in reforming global governance—issues that are top priorities during Brazil’s current presidency.”
Reports of Nigeria’s admission surfaced during the October 2024 summit, and Eche Abu-Obe, then spokesperson of the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also hinted at the country’s acceptance into the group.
Nigeria continues to advocate for full membership in the BRICS alliance as it seeks to enhance its influence on global trade, development and economic policies.
