President Bola Tinubu has landed in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to participate in the 17th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Global South and the Emerging Economic Bloc, BRICS. This crucial diplomatic visit underscores Nigeria’s commitment to global partnerships and economic realignment, with a strong focus on inclusive and sustainable governance.
The BRICS bloc comprises five major emerging economies—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—each playing a strategic role in shaping a multipolar global order. The summit, held from July 6 to 7, 2025, brings together leaders from across the Global South to discuss pressing global issues and economic collaboration.
Tinubu in Brazil for BRICS Summit
President Tinubu’s aircraft touched down at the Galeao Air Force Base in Rio de Janeiro at approximately 8:45 pm local time on Friday. Upon arrival, he was welcomed with a formal Guard of Honour overseen by the Commander of the Galeao Air Force Base. This marked the beginning of a high-profile diplomatic engagement for Nigeria on the world stage.
According to a statement by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President’s participation in the BRICS Summit is an opportunity to deepen Nigeria’s ties with other emerging economies and leverage global economic trends for national development.
Brazilian government officials, including the Deputy Minister for Africa and the Middle East, Carlos Sergio Sobral Duarte, and the Deputy Minister for Trade Promotion, Science, Technology, Innovation, and Culture, received President Tinubu upon arrival. The visit follows an official invitation from Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, highlighting Brazil’s interest in fostering stronger relations with Nigeria.
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Before the formal commencement of the BRICS Summit, President Tinubu is scheduled to attend a bilateral meeting hosted by President Lula. This meeting, held on Saturday, July 5, aims to explore collaborative opportunities between Nigeria and Brazil across multiple sectors.
During the summit, President Tinubu will take part in a plenary session where he is expected to deliver a keynote address. His speech will focus on Nigeria’s bold economic reforms designed to reposition the country for global competitiveness. Topics expected to feature include the removal of fuel subsidies, the unification of foreign exchange rates, and efforts to attract foreign direct investment.
In line with the summit’s goal of economic cooperation, Tinubu will also engage with international investors to promote opportunities in key Nigerian sectors such as agriculture, solid minerals, healthcare, and alternative energy. These engagements are expected to lay the groundwork for increased investment flows into the country, supporting job creation and sustainable growth.
Focus on Inclusive and Sustainable Development
The central theme of the 17th BRICS Summit is “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.” Discussions among the member states and invited leaders will address a range of global issues, including climate change, the governance of Artificial Intelligence, public health, and digital transformation.
Leading up to the summit, BRICS negotiators held preliminary sessions to align their commitments on various fronts. Their focus included tackling socially determined diseases, establishing AI regulatory frameworks, and enhancing climate finance strategies. These issues are of critical importance to the Global South, which continues to bear the brunt of global inequalities.
President Tinubu’s presence at these discussions signals Nigeria’s readiness to play an active role in shaping global policies that affect emerging economies. His administration has repeatedly emphasized the need for South-South cooperation, and the summit presents a unique platform to turn rhetoric into action.
State Governors Join President Tinubu
Accompanying President Tinubu on this strategic visit are five Nigerian state governors: Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), and Mohammed Umar Bago (Niger). Their presence highlights the significance of sub-national participation in international engagements and reflects the diverse interests Nigeria brings to the global stage.
These governors are expected to attend breakout sessions and side meetings that pertain to their respective areas of governance, including infrastructure development, renewable energy, and urban resilience. Their involvement adds depth to Nigeria’s participation and enhances the potential for regionally-focused international cooperation.
President Tinubu’s attendance at the BRICS Summit is a milestone in Nigeria’s foreign policy under his leadership. By engaging with other powerful emerging economies, Tinubu aims to position Nigeria as a key player in global decision-making and to attract strategic partnerships that will support national development.
This visit not only reinforces diplomatic ties but also aligns with Tinubu’s broader agenda of economic revitalization, global competitiveness, and inclusive growth. As Nigeria deepens its role within the Global South, President Tinubu’s leadership at such high-level summits will be crucial in charting a sustainable and prosperous future for the nation.
Source – PUNCH
