Nigeria Joins BRICS As Strategic Partner Nation
In a strategic move to bolster global economic and political influence, the BRICS alliance has officially expanded, adding 13 countries as partner nations. Announced during the BRICS summit held in Kazan, Russia, from October 22 to 24, 2024, this expansion includes Algeria, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam. While these new countries join BRICS as partners rather than full members, their addition reflects the alliance’s efforts to enhance multilateral cooperation with emerging economies worldwide.
Nigeria’s entry into BRICS as a partner country marks a significant milestone in its international relations strategy, aligning with the nation’s intention to eventually become a full member. Confirming this development, a spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe, stated, “Yes, it is true that Nigeria joined BRICS as a partner.” Nigeria’s involvement is expected to deepen trade, investment, and security ties, strengthening its influence within the global economy. In line with prior commitments, Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar previously indicated that Nigeria seeks full membership within two years, highlighting the country’s large economy and population as valuable assets to BRICS.
Initially formed as an alliance between Brazil, Russia, India, and China, BRICS expanded in 2010 to include South Africa. Recently, the bloc added Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates as full members, who participated in the 2024 summit as official attendees. This year’s summit, themed “Strengthening Multilateralism for Fair Global Development and Security,” underscored the alliance’s commitment to fostering equitable global growth, reinforcing security, and enhancing integration with emerging economies.
BRICS’ expansion reflects the organization’s vision of a multipolar world where emerging economies can have a greater say in global governance. With Nigeria and other partner nations now part of the alliance, BRICS aims to reshape the landscape of global cooperation, advancing economic and development goals among key players in the international arena.
