Nigeria and Brazil on Monday signed five strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in Brasília aimed at boosting Nigeria’s economic growth, in a ceremony witnessed by President Bola Tinubu and President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
The agreements span aviation, foreign affairs, science and technology, and the Bank of Agriculture, marking a renewed phase of bilateral cooperation.
Tinubu called on Brazilian oil firm Petrobras to resume operations in Nigeria, citing the country’s vast gas reserves. “We have the largest deposit of gas. I don’t see why Petrobras will not be back in Nigeria very soon,” he said, stressing that its return is key to unlocking Nigeria’s gas potential.
Acknowledging past challenges, Tinubu said both nations were turning a new page. “We’ve allowed past problems and inactivity to hinder progress. Today we say that is the end of that,” he declared, describing the discussions as “emotionally laden and fact-based” and thanking President da Silva for his support.
Highlighting Nigeria’s ambition to lead Africa’s economic and technological revival, Tinubu emphasized technology transfer, food security, and pharmaceutical collaboration. “I don’t see why manufacturing of generic drugs, which Brazil excels in, cannot also take place in Nigeria,” he added.
He also called for stronger aviation links to boost trade and investment, while noting that ongoing reforms in Nigeria are already yielding results.
President da Silva reaffirmed Brazil’s commitment to expanding trade, agriculture, and cultural ties, describing the planned Lagos–São Paulo direct flight as a “cultural renaissance.” He endorsed Nigeria’s bid for G20 membership and a permanent UN Security Council seat, citing the country’s growing global influence.
The Brazilian leader also praised Nigeria’s law enforcement cooperation, encouraged joint climate action ahead of COP 30, and highlighted Africa’s heavy climate burden despite minimal emissions.
