President Tinubu Lands In Brazil For Historic BRICS Summit Appearance.
President Bola Tinubu touched down in Rio de Janeiro on Friday evening, 4 July 2025, to attend the 17th BRICS Summit, marking Nigeria’s inaugural participation as a “partner country” in the influential economic bloc. Arriving at Rio International Airport at approximately 8:45 p.m. local time, the Nigerian leader was warmly received by Brazilian officials, including the Secretary for Africa and the Middle East and the Secretary for Innovation and Commerce, following a state visit to Saint Lucia. The summit, scheduled for 6-7 July, represents a significant moment for Nigeria’s growing role in global economic discussions.
Tinubu’s attendance at the summit, hosted by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, underscores Nigeria’s elevated status within BRICS, a group comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, alongside newer members Egypt, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Indonesia, and Iran. Nigeria, admitted as one of nine partner countries in January 2025, joins other African leaders from South Africa, Egypt, and Ethiopia at the event, which is themed “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.” This new partner status, an upgrade from Nigeria’s previous guest role, allows the country to engage in BRICS meetings and contribute to discussions on critical global issues.
Ahead of the main summit, Tinubu is set to hold a bilateral meeting with President Lula on 5 July, focusing on deepening ties between Nigeria and Brazil in areas such as trade, energy, and cultural exchange. During the summit, the Nigerian president will participate in a plenary session, delivering an address on Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms aimed at enhancing global competitiveness. Accompanied by senior officials, including state governors Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Prince Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), and Mohammed Umar Bago (Niger), Tinubu’s delegation reflects Nigeria’s commitment to robust representation at the summit.
The 2025 BRICS Summit comes at a pivotal time, with discussions expected to focus on global governance reform, climate finance, artificial intelligence governance, and cooperation among Global South nations. Posts on X highlight enthusiasm for Tinubu’s participation, with many Nigerians expressing pride in the country’s growing international presence. However, the summit faces challenges, including tensions over US tariffs and geopolitical divisions, with Russia and China opting to send representatives rather than their leaders, citing issues such as an International Criminal Court warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Nigeria’s participation is seen as a strategic move to strengthen South-South cooperation and amplify the voice of African nations within BRICS. The summit, held at Rio’s Museum of Modern Art, follows Brazil’s hosting of the G20 and precedes its role in the COP30 climate talks, cementing the country’s position as a key player in global diplomacy. Tinubu’s address is anticipated to highlight Nigeria’s efforts to address climate change and economic challenges, building on the nation’s National Development Plan and its push for a just energy transition.
As Nigeria takes its place among emerging economies, Tinubu’s presence at the BRICS Summit signals a bold step towards enhancing the country’s global influence, fostering partnerships, and advocating for inclusive development. The event offers a platform for Nigeria to showcase its potential and contribute to shaping a more equitable global economic order.