Presidency Defends Tinubu’s Brazil Visit as Strategic for Economy

The Presidency has defended President Bola Tinubu’s two-day state visit to Brazil, describing it as a strategic step for Nigeria’s growth.

The trip runs from August 24 to 25, 2025, and aims to deepen cooperation with Latin America’s largest economy and a key BRICS member.

On a recent TV show, presidential spokesperson Sunday Dare said the visit reflects Nigeria’s ambition to strengthen ties beyond traditional partners.

“This is the third visit of President Tinubu to Brazil, and it is with a justifiable cause. It reflects a renewed and focused effort to build lasting economic integration between our countries,” Dare said.

He reminded Nigerians that the partnership traces back to 2004, under President Olusegun Obasanjo, but is now gaining fresh momentum under Tinubu.

Agriculture, Oil, and Investment Talks

Dare drew parallels between Nigeria and Brazil. Brazil has 212 million people; Nigeria 225 million. Brazil also has 238 million cattle — more than its human population.

“This success in agribusiness offers valuable lessons for us as we expand our livestock industry,” he noted.

The visit marks a shift from previous diplomatic trips to concrete economic agreements. “This third visit is a state visit, and it moves Nigeria from being a dialogue partner to actively cutting the necessary deals,” Dare explained.

Agreements are expected in agriculture, energy, aviation, skills, and industrial investment. Nigeria and Brazil are finalising the Green Imperative Partnership (GIP), valued at $1.1 billion. The deal promises 10,000 tractors, 50,000 farm implements, and job creation for millions.

Dare added that $5 billion worth of assets have already come into Nigeria in the last two years through foreign direct investment. He urged patience, stressing that many memoranda of understanding (MOUs) signed abroad are now being activated.

Kaduna Governor Joins the Conversation

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State also backed the visit. He said agriculture would benefit the most, given Brazil’s global standing in beef, dairy, and farm mechanisation.

Kaduna, where agriculture accounts for 42% of GDP and 60% of jobs, has already raised its agriculture budget from 0.5% to 12% since 2023.

“I agree 200% that we need to move from what we do normally or now to what happens globally,” Sani said, referring to ranching over nomadic herding.

The governor revealed Kaduna is partnering with Brazilian agencies in dairy and livestock production. He linked the reforms to reducing insecurity tied to cattle movement.

He also pointed to skill development as central to economic progress. “On the sideline, I led my delegation to meet with Brazil’s leading skill hub, Senai. For me, it’s very important we had that meeting,” he said.

President Tinubu had earlier inaugurated Kaduna’s new technical and vocational institute, which Sani described as “one of the most equipped institutions for skill acquisition in Nigeria.”

Direct Flights and South-South Cooperation

Another focus of the visit is connectivity. Nigeria and Brazil are working towards direct flights that will cut travel time to about eight hours.

According to Dare, this will boost tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. “President Tinubu has started early enough, looking to South-South cooperation. Looking to Brazil, we have so many things in common, and I think it’s on the right track,” he said.

Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva invited Tinubu, underlining mutual interest in expanding bilateral relations.

Tinubu’s delegation includes senior ministers and key advisers, who are expected to sign several agreements during the visit.

From agriculture to renewable energy, and from aviation to youth development, the Brazil visit could shape Nigeria’s long-term economic direction.

Rate, Like 👍, Comment💬, share this article, and join us on our social media handles. You can also Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!