The Federal Government has announced its decision to join BRICS as a partner country, marking a pivotal move to strengthen international collaboration and foster economic growth.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed this in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, on Saturday.

BRICS, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, serves as a platform for emerging economies to enhance trade, investment, and socio-economic cooperation.

According to the statement, Nigeria’s participation highlights its commitment to leveraging opportunities for growth in areas such as energy security, infrastructure, technology, and climate change.

The partnership aligns with Nigeria’s broader goals of inclusive growth, regional integration, and shaping a fairer global economic framework.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria has accepted the invitation to join BRICS as a partner country,” the statement read. “This underscores Nigeria’s dedication to fostering international collaboration, advancing economic opportunities, and aligning strategic partnerships with its development objectives.”

The government expressed optimism about engaging with BRICS members to promote innovation, deepen economic ties, and enhance people-to-people connections while pursuing national interests and priorities.

Nigeria’s decision comes as BRICS expands its reach, recently admitting Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE as full members in 2024. The group aims to drive trade, investment, security, and cooperation among leading emerging markets.

Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar had earlier indicated in November 2023 that Nigeria intends to pursue full membership in BRICS within two years, leveraging its robust economy and large population to play a significant role in the bloc.