Nigeria has officially joined BRICS as a partner country, confirmed by Brazil’s Foreign Ministry.
Newsonspot reports that the announcement pointed out that Nigeria shares similar goals with BRICS, including fostering stronger cooperation among Global South nations and pushing for changes in global institutions.
This move aligns with the shared interests of strengthening cooperation among Global South countries and advocating for international organization reforms.
These priorities are central to Brazil’s leadership as it took over the BRICS presidency on January 1, 2025.
“In its capacity as the pro tempore presidency of BRICS, the Brazilian government announces today, January 17, 2025, the formal admission of Nigeria as a partner country of the grouping. The Brazilian government welcomes the Nigerian government’s decision.”
With this inclusion, Nigeria becomes the ninth partner country of BRICS, joining Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. This partner-country category was established at the 16th BRICS Summit held in Kazan in October 2024.
“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,” the statement said.
Nigeria’s entry into BRICS presents an opportunity to expand its influence in global decision-making and foster stronger economic and diplomatic partnerships with member and partner countries.
Initially formed by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, BRICS expanded in 2010 to include South Africa. BRICS began to expand as more countries expressed interest in joining the group of leading emerging economies.
Throughout its journey toward full membership, Nigeria has been recognized as a significant participant in international dialogues and initiatives. This new partnership with BRICS is expected to further solidify Nigeria’s role on the global stage.
The bloc’s mission is focused on promoting trade, investment, and development among key emerging markets.
