President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to participate in the 17th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Global South and Emerging Economic Bloc, known as BRICS, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

The Nigerian leader’s flight touched down at the Galeao Air Force Base at 8:45 pm local time on Friday, July 4. Upon arrival, he was received by Brazil’s Deputy Minister for Africa and the Middle East, Ambassador Carlos Sergio Sobral Duarte, along with the Deputy Minister for Trade Promotion, Science, Technology, Innovation, and Culture. A Guard of Honour was coordinated by the Galeao Air Force Base Commander.

President Tinubu is in Brazil at the invitation of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. He is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with his Brazilian counterpart on July 5, ahead of the main summit activities taking place on July 6 and 7.

During the summit, President Tinubu is expected to participate in the plenary session and deliver a keynote address highlighting Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms aimed at enhancing global competitiveness. The Nigerian delegation also aims to attract investors by showcasing opportunities in agriculture, solid minerals, healthcare, and alternative energy sectors.

The summit, themed “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance,” will focus on pressing global issues including health, artificial intelligence, governance, and climate change.

Ahead of the main event, BRICS political negotiators held discussions on strategies for collaborative action in areas such as disease control, AI regulation, and climate finance.

Joining President Tinubu at the summit are five Nigerian state governors: Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Prince Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), and Mohammed Umar Bago (Niger).