Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation with over 228 million people, has officially joined BRICS as a partner country, according to an announcement by Brazil’s presidency. This expansion brings the organization to a total of ten full members and nine partner nations.
Last Friday, the Brazilian Foreign Ministry confirmed Nigeria’s new status, making it the ninth official partner of BRICS. The country joins the ranks of Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. “In the exercise of its temporary presidency in BRICS, the Brazilian government today announces, January 17, 2025, the formal adoption of Nigeria as a partner country in the group,” read an official statement.
BRICS, initially formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has recently welcomed new full members, including Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia. The bloc is ramping up efforts to challenge global financial norms, particularly by creating an alternative payment system to decrease reliance on the U.S. dollar. However, this initiative has sparked backlash, with U.S. President Donald Trump warning of increased tariffs against BRICS member states.
The Brazilian presidency highlighted Nigeria’s alignment with the group’s priorities. “Nigeria shares convergent interests with other members of BRICS. The country plays an active role in strengthening South-South cooperation and reforming global governance—issues that are top priority during Brazil’s current presidency,” the statement concluded.
As Nigeria joins this influential coalition, its inclusion underscores the growing influence of BRICS in reshaping global economic and political dynamics.
