Nigeria has officially become a partner nation of the BRICS group, following the announcement made during the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia. This year’s summit, held from October 22 to 24, saw the addition of 13 countries as partner nations, although not full members of the group.
BRICS, which originally stood for Brazil, Russia, India, and China, expanded in 2010 to include South Africa. Over the years, the group has continued to evolve, welcoming new full members such as Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. At the 2024 summit, these nations attended as full participants, while others like Nigeria were brought on as partners.
The newly added partner nations are Algeria, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam. Nigeria’s inclusion as a BRICS partner aligns with its long-term economic goals and its strategic importance as one of Africa’s largest economies.
The 2024 BRICS summit was held under the theme “Strengthening Multilateralism for Fair Global Development and Security,” with the aim of boosting economic cooperation and enhancing security among member nations and emerging economies.
By integrating key nations, BRICS aims to create a stronger economic bloc that can better compete on the global stage, promoting fair development and fostering stronger ties between developing nations.
While Nigeria has not yet achieved full membership status, the country’s role as a partner is seen as a significant step towards greater integration. Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar had previously stated in November 2023 that Nigeria was aiming for full membership within the next two years, citing the nation’s economic potential and large population as key factors for its eventual inclusion.
A post from BRICS on X (formerly Twitter) confirmed the announcement: “BRICS officially adds 13 new nations to the alliance as partner countries (not full members).”
In addition, a spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb Eche Abu-Obe, also confirmed the country’s participation, stating, “Yes. It is true that Nigeria joined BRICS as a partner.”
