“Nigeria and Brazil have reinforced their commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation in crucial sectors such as agriculture, energy, and infrastructure, building upon a longstanding relationship that began with Nigeria’s independence in 1960. This renewed focus on collaboration was the core objective of a recent visit to Abuja by a Brazilian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Mauro Viera, for significant bilateral discussions. The visit marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing relationship between the two countries.
The Brazilian delegation is scheduled to engage with Nigerian officials to explore collaborative opportunities in additional areas, including education, economic partnerships, and cultural exchanges, with the intention of finalizing several agreements. During the welcoming remarks, Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, highlighted Brazil’s unique role as the only Latin American nation to participate in Nigeria’s independence celebrations, underscoring the deep historical connection between the two countries.
“We share numerous commonalities, from our economic scale and geographic size to our population and cultural heritage. This visit is a natural progression of our established partnership,” he stated. Minister Tuggar also emphasized the complementary nature of the Nigeria-Brazil relationship, referencing their active collaboration since Nigeria’s independence. He recalled President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s participation in the G20 summit held in Brazil last year, where he engaged in initiatives to deepen bilateral ties.
“We extend a warm welcome to you and your delegation, and we are pleased to host you in Abuja. This visit is a continuation of our efforts to solidify the bond between our nations,” Ambassador Tuggar conveyed. In response, Minister Viera of Brazil recalled his initial meeting with Nigerian officials in Dubai in 2023, followed by a subsequent meeting between Presidents Lula and Tinubu in Addis Ababa in 2024.
Viera praised President Tinubu’s contributions at the G20 summit in Brazil last November, acknowledging Nigeria’s valuable input to the forum. He also extended an official invitation from President Lula for President Tinubu to visit Brazil in the near future, aiming to further strengthen bilateral relations and build upon the foundation established since President Lula assumed office in January 2023.
The Brazilian minister underscored the importance of ongoing strategic dialogue and the pursuit of deeper bilateral relations.”
