In a significant development, Brazil has announced the formal admission of Africa’s powerhouse, Nigeria, as a partner country in the BRICS alliance, comprising some of the world’s leading emerging economies.
In a statement released on Friday, Brazil’s foreign ministry welcomed Nigeria’s inclusion, highlighting the nation’s strategic importance to the alliance. “The Brazilian government welcomes the Nigerian government’s decision,” the statement read.
BRICS, originally consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has been expanding its reach to accommodate more nations. The partner-country category was introduced at the 16th BRICS Summit held in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024. Reports indicated Nigeria’s interest and subsequent entry into the alliance at the time.
In her reaction, Eche Abu-Obe, spokesperson for Nigeria’s ministry of foreign affairs at the time, hailed the move as a significant step toward greater global cooperation.
With Brazil’s official announcement, Nigeria now becomes the ninth partner country in BRICS, joining Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.
Brazil emphasized Nigeria’s credentials, citing its position as Africa’s most populous nation and a major economic force on the continent. “Nigeria plays an active role in strengthening South-South cooperation and reforming global governance—key priorities under Brazil’s current BRICS presidency,” the ministry noted.
Nigeria is also reportedly working towards attaining full membership in the alliance, signaling its ambition to further integrate into the global economic landscape.
Meanwhile analysts have suggested that the inclusion of countries like Nigeria goes a long way to reflect BRICS’ growing influence as it redefines global economic and political alliances. They said Nigeria’s acceptance into BRICS highlights the country’s increasing relevance on the world stage and its commitment to collaborating with other emerging economies.
Philips Babatunde