From Our Correspondent
Abuja, June 26, ’25 (TNZ) Vice-President Kashim Shettima, on Wednesday in Abuja, said Nigeria was witnessing a silent but bold transformation under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
TheNewsZenith reports that the vice president made the remarks at the Nigeria–Brazil Business Forum.
The forum was tagged, “Roots to Revenue: The Nigeria–Brazil Corridor”.
Shettima said the renewed strategic alliance with Brazil “is grounded in intent, and rich in the potential for mutual growth”.
According to him, Brazil’s journey in agriculture, energy, infrastructure and industrial development, speaks to ongoing transformation in Nigeria.
“This reflects what is possible when technical capacity is matched with national determination. These are the same areas where Nigeria is making bold moves.
“Under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria is undergoing a quiet but resolute transformation. Markets are being opened. Institutions are being rebuilt. Policies are being refocused.
“What drives these changes is a seriousness of purpose that goes beyond reform for reform’s sake.
“We seek partners, who see our direction, who respect our ambition, and who prepare to walk the path with us,” TheNewsZenith quotes Shettima as saying.
The VP underscored the need for the strategic alliance with Brazil. He noted that Nigeria was embarking on a journey similar to that of the South American country.
“Our Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones are taking form. Our farmers are ready to operate at scale.
“But we know the difference between going alone and going far. Brazil can stand with us in this effort, not as a donor, but as a partner in innovation, in training and in investment.
“We are equally attentive to your leadership in clean energy. Nigeria’s energy transition is rooted in what we can control.
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“This administration is harnessing our gas reserves to power our industries and transportation, while also advancing our renewable energy ambitions. Brazil’s example provides guidance that is real and tested.
“We are eager to learn from your experience in building an energy economy that creates jobs, supports industries and expands access to rural communities.
“Our teams are ready to engage on how to move from policy to practice, from ideas to infrastructure,” he said.
He disclosed that Nigeria is encouraged by Brazil’s interest in skills development and human capital.
In his remarks, the Vice-President of Brazil, Geraldo Alckmin, reaffirmed Brazil’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Nigeria.
Alckmin noted that the commitment spans through long-term cooperation, shared innovation, and mutual economic growth.
He described the moment as “most promising” in the history of Nigeria-Brazil diplomatic and commercial relations.
“This is a necessary complement to deepen our relationship. We want this moment to correspond to the production of sustainable partnerships for our people,” the Brazilian leader said.
Alckmin spoke on the Green Imperative Initiative (GPI), a $1.1 billion programme to transfer Brazilian agricultural technology to Nigeria, as a model of transformative South-South cooperation.
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He also highlighted the potential in key sectors such as agriculture, defence, innovation, and energy.
He acknowledged that despite the strong historic and cultural ties, trade volumes between both countries were still much lower than the potential.
“Our trade is growing, but it can increase tremendously. Brazil is ready to work with Nigeria to build a commercially successful South-South corridor,” TheNewsZenith quotes Alckmin as saying.
He said that Brazil does not just export products, but offer solutions and ideas, adding that under President Lula’s administration, Brazil has simplified its tax regime.
He added that Brazil is exploring a direct flight route to Nigeria to ease business travel and trade.
Dr Jumoke Oduwole, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, called for a reset in the bilateral trade dynamic.
Oduwole lamented the current $2 billion trade volume, down from $9 billion a decade ago.
She outlined Nigeria’s priority sectors for investment, including agro-industrial value chains, digital trade, the creative economy, and pharmaceuticals.
The minister noted that the Nigerian government was making efforts to streamline investor engagement through a digital portal tracking live project pipelines. (TNZ)
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