President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to take part in the 17th BRICS Summit holding from July 6 to 7, 2025.

This year’s summit focuses on two major themes: reforming global governance and deepening cooperation among countries in the Global South.

Tinubu’s trip comes after a week-long state visit to the Caribbean nation of Saint Lucia. He touched down in Brazil on Friday following an invitation from Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

This marks Nigeria’s first participation in the BRICS Summit as a partner country, a new status granted in January 2025. Before now, Nigeria had only attended as a guest. The partner designation gives the country more room to engage in official meetings, contribute to policy discussions, and play a more active role in BRICS activities.

BRICS, an informal alliance of emerging economies was originally made up of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. But in 2024, the bloc expanded to welcome six new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia. 

Nigeria, although not a full member yet, is now one of the nine recognized partner countries.

With growing global interest in technology and innovation, this summit offers a platform for Nigeria to push its economic agenda and attract investments in areas like artificial intelligence, 5G, big data, solar energy, and robotics. 

Countries like China, India, and Brazil are already leaders in these fields, and Tinubu is expected to use the opportunity to draw investor interest to Nigeria’s untapped potential

especially in sectors such as agriculture, mining, and energy.

This year’s gathering in Brazil presents more than just diplomacy; it’s a chance for Nigeria to find new allies in trade, technology, and development. As the summit begins, attention will turn to how President Tinubu positions Nigeria’s voice among rising global powers.