Brazil has officially announced Nigeria’s admission as a partner country in the BRICS alliance, according to a statement from the Brazilian Foreign Ministry on Friday. This makes Nigeria the ninth partner country in BRICS, joining Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.
The Brazilian government welcomed Nigeria’s decision, highlighting the country’s significance as Africa’s largest economy and the sixth-most populous nation in the world. Nigeria shares common interests with other BRICS members and plays an active role in promoting South-South cooperation and reforming global governance, which are key priorities during Brazil’s current presidency.
Originally consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, the BRICS alliance has expanded as more countries have sought to join. The partner-country category was established at the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan in October 2024, where Nigeria’s inclusion was first reported. Former Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Eche Abu-Obe had previously noted Nigeria’s acceptance into this influential group.