Gladness Gideon
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has arrived in Rio de Janeiro to participate in the 17th Summit of Heads of State and Government for the Global South and Emerging Economic Bloc, widely known as BRICS. The alliance comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
The President’s aircraft touched down at Galeão Air Force Base at 8:45 p.m. local time on Friday. Upon arrival, he was received with full military honours coordinated by the base’s commander. Also present to welcome the Nigerian leader were Brazil’s Deputy Minister for Africa and the Middle East, Carlos Sergio Sobral Duarte, and the Deputy Minister for Trade Promotion, Science, Technology, Innovation, and Culture.
According to a statement issued by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu is in Brazil at the invitation of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. He is scheduled to attend a bilateral meeting with the Brazilian President on Saturday, July 5, ahead of the BRICS Summit taking place on July 6 and 7.
President Tinubu will deliver an address at the summit’s plenary session, focusing on Nigeria’s economic reforms and the government’s efforts to enhance the country’s global competitiveness. He is also expected to meet with international investors to explore opportunities in key sectors such as agriculture, solid minerals, healthcare, and alternative energy.
This year’s summit is themed “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.” Discussions will revolve around pressing global issues including climate change, artificial intelligence, healthcare, and inclusive governance.
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In the lead-up to the summit, BRICS political negotiators have engaged in dialogue aimed at advancing coordinated strategies to tackle structural challenges in the Global South. Key areas of focus include AI governance, climate finance, and the fight against socially determined diseases.
Accompanying President Tinubu are several Nigerian governors, including Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Prince Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), and Mohammed Umar Bago (Niger).
The summit underscores Nigeria’s growing engagement with emerging economies and its strategic commitment to South-South cooperation.