Nigeria has officially become a partner country of BRICS, the intergovernmental alliance of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, aimed at fostering economic and geopolitical collaboration among its members.
This development was confirmed by the Brazilian government in a statement released on Friday.
According to the announcement, Nigeria joins eight other nations in the partner category of BRICS, which includes Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.
The statement reads: “As the pro tempore president of BRICS, the Brazilian government formally announces the admission of Nigeria as a partner country on January 17, 2025. The government of Brazil welcomes this decision by Nigeria.”
The partner-country category was introduced during the 16th BRICS Summit held in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024.
The inclusion of Nigeria, the largest country in Africa by population and one of its leading economies, reflects shared priorities among BRICS nations.
Brazil emphasized Nigeria’s significant role in South-South cooperation and the push for reforms in global governance.
“Nigeria’s interests align with BRICS’ mission to strengthen collaboration among Global South countries and to advocate for changes in international organizations,” the statement added.
Notably, Indonesia, originally announced as a BRICS partner, was granted full membership on January 6, 2025, during Brazil’s tenure as president of the organization.
The announcement highlights BRICS’ growing emphasis on expanding its influence by incorporating key global players from the Global South, positioning Nigeria as a critical partner in its evolving framework.
