In a significant development, Nigeria has officially joined the BRICS bloc as a partner country, marking a pivotal step in enhancing cooperation among emerging economies.
This was contained in a statement by the Brazil Foreign Ministry, on Friday.
According to the statement, Brazil, which holds the bloc’s presidency in 2025, said Nigeria has been actively strengthening cooperation in the Global South and reforming global governance, which has been a priority to Brazil.
Brazil’s Announcement
On January 17, 2025, Brazil’s Foreign Ministry announced Nigeria’s inclusion in BRICS, emphasizing the nation’s strategic importance. The statement highlighted Nigeria as “the 6th largest population in the world and the 1st on the African continent, as well as one of the largest economies in Africa,” noting that Nigeria’s interests align with those of existing BRICS members.
“As the 6th largest population in the world and the 1st on the African continent, as well as one of the largest economies in Africa, Nigeria has converging interests with the other members of the group,”
the statement said.
RICS Expansion
Nigeria’s accession follows the recent inclusion of Indonesia as a full member on January 6, 2025, making it the first Southeast Asian country to join the bloc.
This expansion reflects BRICS’ commitment to strengthening ties among emerging nations and reforming global governance structures.
Implications for Global Governance
The inclusion of Nigeria and Indonesia signifies a shift in global economic dynamics, with BRICS now representing a substantial portion of the world’s population and GDP. The bloc’s expansion underscores its role in advocating for the interests of the Global South and promoting a multipolar world order.
Nigeria’s entry into BRICS as a partner country marks a significant milestone in the bloc’s evolution, reinforcing its mission to enhance cooperation among emerging economies and reshape global governance to be more inclusive and representative of the Global South.
Future Prospects
As Brazil assumes the BRICS presidency in 2025, the focus is expected to be on fostering deeper economic ties, mobilizing financing to combat climate change, and advancing sustainable development goals. Nigeria’s partnership is anticipated to bolster these initiatives, given its economic potential and strategic position in Africa.
Accoriding to reports, Nigeria joined the BRICS in a status already held by another eight nations primarily in Latin America, Eastern Europe and Asia.
More details soon…