News Agency of Nigeria
Nigeria, Brazil sign MoUs, Tinubu urges Petrobras’ return
Foreign

Nigeria, Brazil sign MoUs, Tinubu urges Petrobras’ return

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh
‎
‎Nigeria and Brazil on Monday signed five strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in key sectors, aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s economic development.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the signing took place in Brasília, witnessed by President Bola Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

The MoUs cover aviation, foreign affairs, science and technology, and the Bank of Agriculture, marking a renewed phase of bilateral cooperation.

After the signing, President Tinubu strongly urged Brazilian oil giant Petrobras to resume operations in Nigeria.

“We have the largest deposit of gas. I don’t see why Petrobras will not be back in Nigeria very soon,” he said.

Tinubu stressed that Petrobras’ return was key to unlocking Nigeria’s gas potential and stimulating growth.

Reflecting on past relations, Tinubu admitted there had been setbacks but emphasised a new beginning for both nations.

“We’ve allowed past problems and inactivities to hinder progress. Today we say that is the end of that,” he declared.

He recalled that this was his third visit to Brazil, having previously engaged on G20 partnerships and climate issues.

Tinubu described the current dialogue as both “emotionally laden and fact-based,” thanking President da Silva for renewed cooperation.

“We’re working hard to raise our sovereignty to the expected level. Nigeria, the most populous and dynamic country, must share with Brazil,” he said.

Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s ambition to lead Africa’s economic and technological renewal, driven by partnerships such as Brazil’s.

He stressed that technology transfer, scientific collaboration, and food sovereignty must underpin the new alliance.

The President also identified Brazil’s pharmaceutical leadership as a model Nigeria could adopt.

“I don’t see why manufacturing of generic drugs, which Brazil excels in, cannot also take place in Nigeria,” he added.

Tinubu noted that Nigeria’s ongoing reforms were necessary and already yielding results.

He emphasised the need to strengthen aviation links between both countries, saying this would enhance trade and economic opportunities.

Earlier, President da Silva reaffirmed Brazil’s commitment to deepening trade, agriculture, and cultural ties with Nigeria.

He hailed the planned direct flight between Lagos and São Paulo as a major step toward a “cultural renaissance.”

Da Silva also endorsed Nigeria’s bid for G20 membership and a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, citing its growing global influence.

He praised Nigeria’s cooperation in law enforcement and its support for Brazil’s Interpol executive body membership.

The Brazilian leader further urged joint action on climate change ahead of COP 30, stressing Africa’s heavy burden despite its minimal emissions. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Tinubu receives full military honours in Brazil
Foreign

Tinubu receives full military honours in Brazil

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu received a full military welcome on Monday during his official visit to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at the Planalto Palace, Brasília.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a colourful guard of honour, meticulously drilled, ushered in the Nigerian leader.

President da Silva formally welcomed Tinubu, exchanged pleasantries, posed for photographs, and introduced his ministers. Tinubu reciprocated by presenting his delegation, largely composed of cabinet ministers.

After the ceremony, both leaders held a private discussion, followed by bilateral talks involving key ministers from both countries and the signing of Memoranda of Understanding.

Tinubu, who arrived in Brasília earlier on Monday, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic ties with the South American powerhouse.

In a post on his official X handle, Tinubu described the meeting as a strategic moment in Nigeria-Brazil relations.

“Today’s engagement marks the renewal of the historic relationship between Nigeria and Brazil.

“I look forward to working with President Lula to deepen cooperation in agriculture, energy, trade, and culture, towards building a future of shared prosperity,” he said.

NAN also reports that Tinubu will attend the Nigeria-Brazil Business Forum, a major highlight of his official programme in the Brazilian capital. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

‎Tinubu arrives in Brazil for state visit
Foreign

‎Tinubu arrives in Brazil for state visit

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu arrived in Brasília early Monday for a two-day state visit aimed at deepening Nigeria-Brazil relations.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the presidential aircraft, Nigerian Air Force One (NAF-001), nicknamed “Eagle One,” touched down at Brasília International Airport around 12:30 a.m. local time, 4. 30 a.m. (Nigerian time).

‎Tinubu was received by Carlos Duarte, Secretary for Africa and the Middle East, Carlos José Moreno Garcete, Ambassador of Brazil to Nigeria and top Nigerian government officials including
‎Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.

‎The President then proceeded directly to his hotel where he will be based during the visit.
‎

‎At his hotel, he was received by Speaker of House of Representative, Tajudeen Abass, Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State and Gov. Caleb Mutfwang.

‎Others present are:Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar and Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole.

‎Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha and Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji were also present, among others.

‎NAN reports that the Nigerian leader is scheduled to meet with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and other senior Brazilian officials on Monday at the
Planalto Palace.

‎The leaders will witness the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and address a joint press conference afterwards.

‎As part of his engagements, President Tinubu will meet with the President of the Brazilian Senate at the National Congress, the President of the Chamber of Deputies, and the President of the Supreme Federal Court.

‎He will also participate in the Nigeria-Brazil Business Forum as part of a packed programme in Brasília on Monday.

‎President Tinubu’s agenda will focus on boosting cooperation in aviation, agribusiness, livestock, security, trade, and cultural exchange with the Latin America’s largest economy.

‎Key discussions will also explore partnerships in agriculture, energy transition, regional security and areas of mutual strategic interest.

‎A major highlight will be the signing of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) for direct flights between Nigeria and Brazil.

‎Breakout sessions and sideline meetings involving Nigerian ministries will complement the high-level talks.

‎NAN recalls that President Tinubu led Nigeria’s delegation to the BRICS Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro in July and, on President Lula’s invitation, attended the G20 Summit in Brazil in November 2024.

‎Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin and his wife, Maria Lúcia Alckmin, visited Abuja for the Second Session of the Mechanism for Strategic Dialogue in June.
‎

‎Nigeria and Brazil signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2013 to establish the Mechanism for Strategic Dialogue to foster cooperation in agriculture, trade, defence, energy, education, power, petroleum, and mining.

‎The Dialogue is co-chaired by the Vice Presidents of both countries and alternates annually.

‎The Second Session of the Mechanism for Strategic Dialogue occurred in Abuja in June. This resulted in the signing of seven MoUs, including agreements on the Strategic Dialogue Mechanism Cooperation Renewal, Defence Cooperation, Energy, Tourism, Audio-Visual Co-Production, Livestock Development, and Counternarcotics.

‎Brazil is a key partner in Nigeria’s food security programme. The $2.5 billion JBS investment to strengthen food security and develop sustainable supply chains was signed in Brazil during President Tinubu’s participation at the 2024 G20 Leaders’ Summit.

‎The project aims to boost local production and create job opportunities for Nigerian youth.

‎The Green Imperative Programme (GIP), a $1.1 billion agricultural mechanisation project launched in 2019, is also on course. It aims to supply 10,000 tractors and 50,000 units of farm equipment for assembly in Nigeria.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi
‎

Tinubu’s Brazil visit strategic for economy diversification — Presidency
General News

Tinubu’s Brazil visit strategic for economy diversification — Presidency

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎The Presidency has said that President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to Brazil is “strategic”, and a broader ambition to diversify and strengthen Nigeria’s economy through global partnerships.

It emphasised, that the visit is a potential game changer aimed at deepening ties with Latin America’s largest economy and a major BRICS member.

‎Mr Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, stated this in an interview with newsmen in Brasilia.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that President Tinubu is expected to arrive in Brazil on Monday for a two-day state visit at the invitation of President Lula da Silva.

Dare said that the visit has the potentials to accelerate Nigeria’s economic growth through targeted engagements in key sectors of the Nigerian economy.

‎”Yes, this is the third visit of President Tinubu to Brazil, and it is with a justifiable cause.

‎“It reflects a renewed and focused effort to build lasting economic integration between our countries.

“This is a journey that started 21 years ago under President Olusegun Obasanjo and has gained fresh momentum under President Tinubu,” he said

‎Dare noted that both countries shared similarities in demography, economy, and cultural affinity that make the visit timely and important.

‎He highlighted Brazil’s global leadership in mechanized agriculture, agribusiness, and renewable energy as key areas of interest for Nigeria.

‎“Brazil has a cattle herd of 238 million, even more than its human population.

‎“This success in agribusiness offers valuable lessons for us as we expand our livestock industry,” he said.

Dare noted that while previous visits centered around international summits like G20 and BRICS, the latest “marks a shift towards concrete bilateral agreements”.

‎“This third visit is a state visit, and it moves Nigeria from being a dialogue partner to actively cutting the necessary deals that will open up investments and strengthen cooperation.

‎“This visit is critical to opening the economic chapter of our relationship with Brazil.

‎“It’s about transforming historic and cultural ties into practical, mutually beneficial investments that will boost Nigeria’s growth and global standing,” he stressed

‎Dare added that the visit will strengthen cooperation in aviation, livestock, trade, and other strategic sectors.

‎NAN reports that this visit marks the second leg of President Tinubu’s two-nation tour, which began with his participation in the ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Japan.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

‎Nigeria: Why Brazil? Yes, Brazil
Features , Foreign

‎Nigeria: Why Brazil? Yes, Brazil

By Sunday Dare
‎
‎Three visits in less than a year. That is not mere coincidence, it is deliberate strategy. And as usual, disingenuous reportage from a section of the press is insinuating some obsession of President Tinubu with Brazil. Well, Yes. But It is an obsession in pursuit of economic partnerships and opportunities for Nigeria.  And that’s what visionary leaders do.
‎
‎The deeper truth, however, lies in a deliberate arc of diplomacy — one that connects Nigeria’s voice in global governance to concrete opportunities for investment, trade, and cooperation.
‎
‎President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will undertake his third visit to Brazil from August 24–25, 2025, at the invitation of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, one of our biggest supporters and partners.
‎
‎This two-day State Visit will feature bilateral meetings, a Nigeria–Brazil Business Forum with leading investors, and the signing of key agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to strengthen cooperation across agriculture, energy, technology, aviation, renewable energy and cultural exchange.
‎
‎A strategic arc from G20 to BRICS to a State Visit: The first visit of President Tinubu to Brazil was in November 2024: for the G20 Leaders’ Summit, Rio de Janeiro from November 18-19, 2024. The President was at the summit which focused on ‘Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet,’ a gathering that was convened to tackle major global challenges like poverty, hunger, energy transition, and sustainable development.
‎
‎At that forum, Tinubu gracefully advocated for reforming global governance structures, continuing Nigeria’s long-standing call for fairer representation of developing nations in decision-making institutions.
‎
‎The sophomore visit was barely a month ago from 6th-7th of July for the BRICS Summit, in Brasília. At this 17th BRICS Summit, President Tinubu participated as the leader of a Partner Country- a membership category short of full status but significant, nonetheless.
‎
‎This BRICS summit focused on ‘Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance’ with discussions centering on social, economic, and environmental development. President Tinubu’s message rang out clearly : Nigeria cannot remain a passive observer in the evolving global order — it must be an active shaper of a fairer and more inclusive system.
‎
‎“Nigeria strongly believes in South-South cooperation. We can, therefore, not be passive participants in global decision-making on financial restructuring, debt forgiveness, climate change, environmental issues, and healthcare”.
‎
‎And now, this august visit in August 2025- this State Visit marks the transition from diplomacy to deals. Beyond dialogue, the focus will be activating multi-billion-dollar agricultural investments, advancing joint initiatives like the $1.1 billion Green Imperative mechanization project and securing new flows of FDI into Nigeria’s agriculture and energy sectors. It is also about deepening political trust, expanding cultural exchange, and harnessing shared opportunities in renewable energy, climate resilience, and digital transformation.
‎
‎Why Nigeria and Brazil Must Work Together
‎
‎Brazil is Latin America’s largest economy and a global agricultural powerhouse. Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest economies  with vast arable land and a young, dynamic population. Both are leaders of the Global South with converging aspirations in South–South cooperation.
‎
‎Together, we face common challenges — and opportunities:
‎•Food Security: Brazil’s advanced mechanization and Nigeria’s fertile land create a powerful synergy.
‎•Climate Change & Energy Transition: Both countries share vulnerabilities, requiring joint innovation in renewables and green finance.
‎•Global Trade Realignment: With uncertainties around U.S. AGOA renewal, BRICS-linked trade and currency channels are becoming vital.
‎•Technology & Youth Employment: Harnessing the digital economy is central to empowering their youthful populations.
‎
‎Trade and Investment Potential
‎
‎Trade between Nigeria and Brazil has experienced sharp swings in recent years. From a high of about US $9 billion a decade ago, bilateral trade fell to just US $1.6 billion in 2023, reflecting underutilized opportunities and shifting global dynamics.
‎
‎In 2024, the figure remained under US $2 billion, with Brazil exporting roughly US $970 million worth of goods such as machinery and poultry to Nigeria, while Nigeria’s exports to Brazil stood at about US $920 million, driven by oil, cocoa, urea, and sesame. Brazil’s total imports from Nigeria in 2024 were valued at US $1.17 billion, largely mineral fuels and fertilizers.
‎
‎Despite this contraction, the trade balance between the two economies remains relatively even, a sign of mutual complementarity rather than one-sided dependence. Nigeria’s non-oil exports are increasingly finding space in the Brazilian market — in October 2024 alone, Nigeria’s non-oil exports reached US $0.62 billion, with Brazil as the single largest destination, accounting for over 20 per cent of the total.
‎
‎This demonstrates that beyond hydrocarbons, sectors like agriculture and agro-processing are already serving as bridges between the two economies, with clear potential for scaling up.
‎
‎Looking ahead, both countries have set ambitious targets to revive and expand their trade partnership. At several fora, leaders pledged to push trade back above US $2 billion, with a longer-term goal of reaching US $3.5 billion by 2030.
‎
‎Nigeria and Brazil have since signed onto an economic cooperation with the launch of the Green Imperative Partnership (GIP), a USD $1.1 billion initiative aimed at supplying 10,000 tractors and 50,000 pieces of equipment, to be assembled in Nigeria.
‎
‎This project is estimated to provide about 100,000 direct jobs and over 5 million indirect jobs. The program is anticipated to advance agricultural mechanisation and food security in Nigeria. It is imperative to note that the Green Imperative Agreement was signed during the visit of the Brazilian Foreign Minister, H.E. Mauro Viera, in Abuja this year. 
‎
‎In Oil & Gas, Brazilian giants such as Petrobras and Embraer are exploring investments in energy and aviation. The BASA Agreement for a direct flight route between our two countries is already on the table to be consummated , a move that would  dramatically improve connectivity, lower costs, and unlock new flows of trade, tourism, and investment.
‎
‎Cultural Linkages; Asides trade and economy, Nigeria and Brazil are linked by deep historical bonds dating back to the transatlantic slave trade, when millions of Africans — especially Yoruba, Hausa, and Igbo — were taken to Brazil. Their languages, faiths, music, and cuisine left lasting imprints, visible today in Salvador da Bahia, Rio de Janeiro, and Afro-Brazilian traditions like Candomblé and Capoeira. Consular relations between the two countries are marked by the presence of an estimated 9,000 Nigerians residing in Brazil, the majority of whom live in Sao Paulo, the biggest city and commercial nerve center of the country.
‎
‎These roots now fuel modern exchanges in art, film, music, and academia, with Yoruba studies thriving in Brazil and Afro-Brazilian festivals attracting Nigerians. Such cultural diplomacy strengthens goodwill and opens pathways in the creative economy, heritage tourism, and education — proving the Nigeria–Brazil relationship is as much about shared identity as it is about shared strategy.

Beyond trade and diplomacy; The growing relevance of BRICS and the G20 signals a shift toward a multipolar world order. This is not about opposing any single power bloc; it is about ensuring space for voices like Nigeria’s and Brazil’s in reshaping trade, finance, technology, and food systems.
‎
‎As President Tinubu argued in Brasília, BRICS and South–South frameworks allow nations like Nigeria and Brazil to ‘look inward to decide what is important for our people and how we can leverage partnerships to accelerate development.’
‎
‎Nigeria and Brazil share several commonalities, including vast territories, large populations, tropical climates, and similar colonial histories. Both Countries hold considerable influence within their respective regions and are active members of key international organisations. They have been strong advocate for South-South Cooperation, with Brazil viewing Nigeria as a strategic gateway to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) market.
‎
‎This State Visit is the next leap forward in a carefully crafted strategy, one that transforms shared history and mutual challenges into shared prosperity.

‎This State Visit is  yet one of President Tinubu’s Power Forward Diplomacy (PFD), one that obliterates obstacles but propels Nigeria into a new era of bold economic and political diplomacy. A handshake across the Atlantic between two Global players in their own rights. Let the world take note : BRAZIL IS THEREFORE NOT A DETOUR BUT A DESTINATION.
‎
*‎Mr Sunday Dare, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity Communication to President Bola Tinubu, is part of the President’s delegation to Brazil for the two-day state visit.
‎

Tinubu departs Japan for Brazil state visit
Foreign

Tinubu departs Japan for Brazil state visit

By Muhyideen Jimoh
‎
‎President Bola Tinubu departed Yokohama, Japan, on Thursday night for Brazil, where he will begin a state visit on Sunday, Aug. 24.

Presidential spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, said in a statement that the President would make a stopover in Los Angeles before proceeding to Brasília, the Brazilian capital.

The trip to Brazil marks the second leg of Tinubu’s two-nation tour, which began with his departure from Abuja on Aug. 15.

On his way to Japan, the President had a brief stop in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, before arriving in Yokohama on the morning of Aug. 18.

While in Japan, Tinubu participated in the ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), where he attended both the opening and plenary sessions on Aug. 20.

He also held a series of bilateral meetings with Japanese government officials, business leaders and development partners, aimed at strengthening ties between Nigeria and Japan.

The President further used the visit to highlight Nigeria’s economic reform agenda and to seek greater Japanese investment in infrastructure, technology, and renewable energy.

In addition to official engagements, Tinubu concluded his stay with an interactive session with Nigerians in the diaspora on Thursday night in Yokohama.

At the forum, he commended their contributions to national development and urged them to remain good ambassadors of Nigeria while exploring opportunities to invest back home.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Tinubu is expected to focus on trade, security, and cultural exchange during his Brazilian visit, reinforcing Nigeria’s bilateral relations with Latin America’s largest economy.

According to the Presidency, the visit will also feature discussions on cooperation in agriculture, energy transition, and regional security, areas of shared interest to both countries.

The President’s engagements in Brazil will include meetings with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and other senior government officials.

He is also expected to meet with the Nigerian community in Brazil to brief them on government policies and encourage stronger diaspora participation in national growth.

The presidency confirmed that Tinubu is due to return to Nigeria after completing his official engagements in Brazil. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

TICAD9: Tinubu sets bn trade, investment target
General News

TICAD9: Tinubu sets $1bn trade, investment target

By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu says Nigeria’s participation in the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) is anchored on a bold $1 billion trade and investment goal.

Leading Nigeria’s high-powered delegation to the conference in Yokohama, Japan, Tinubu said the visit seeks to drive green innovation, foster industrial growth, and reinforce Nigeria as West Africa’s gateway.

In a post on his verified X handle, @officialABAT, Tinubu stressed that Nigeria’s engagement at TICAD9 is strategic and deliberate, rather than ceremonial.

The President stated: “At #TICAD9, themed ‘Co-create innovative solutions with Africa,’ Nigeria comes with clarity of purpose.

“Our participation aims to unlock over $1 billion in trade and investment, advance green innovation, expand opportunities for youth, and position Nigeria as West Africa’s hub.”

He described TICAD9 as a platform for long-term partnerships, built on innovation, trust, and talent.

“This summit is our launchpad for lasting development and global collaboration, anchored on technology, trust, and talent,” Tinubu added.

Reaffirming Nigeria’s leadership in Africa’s development, Tinubu declared that the nation is prepared to lead from the front.

“Nigeria will lead, and Africa will rise,” he affirmed.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that TICAD9 is jointly organised by Japan and development partners, bringing together African leaders, investors, and multilateral institutions.

The summit seeks to foster sustainable economic growth across Africa and strengthen cross-continental partnerships.

Tinubu’s presence marks his first official visit to Japan since taking office in May 2023, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to deeper Japan-Africa economic relations.

His attendance further signals Nigeria’s readiness to attract significant private sector investment and global cooperation. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

TICAD9: Nigeria focused on strategic engagements, not trade expo —- Presidency
Foreign

TICAD9: Nigeria focused on strategic engagements, not trade expo —- Presidency

‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎The Presidency has said Nigeria’s delegation to the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) is focused on strategic engagements, not a trade exhibition.

In a statement on Wednesday, Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, said President Bola Tinubu’s delegation is pursuing results in key sectors such as power, industry, and agriculture.

The clarification follows social media reports showing an empty booth labelled “Nigeria” at the TICAD9 venue in Yokohama, Japan.

Onanuga described the viral narrative as a misrepresentation of Nigeria’s mission at the triennial conference, stressing that the country is not participating as a trade exhibitor.

He noted that while the reports may reflect patriotic concern, they reveal ignorance about Nigeria’s actual objectives at TICAD9.

According to him, Nigeria’s participation is centred on forging bilateral and multilateral partnerships that will support economic growth and development.

Onanuga revealed that the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) will host a targeted investment forum at the conference on Thursday.

He added that ministers are holding bilateral meetings, while President Tinubu will meet executives from Toyota, CFAO, UN-Habitat, UNDP, and the International Finance Corporation.

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, is leading talks on several projects backed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), including power transmission improvements in Lagos and Ogun states.

Other projects include a partnership between the National Power Training Institute (NAPTIN) and JICA on vocational training, and a $190 million renewable energy access initiative.

Adelabu is also scheduled to meet with leading Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), such as TOSHIBA and HITACHI, on possible collaborations in the power sector.

Onanuga further disclosed that the Bank of Industry, led by Dr Supo Olusi, is engaged in high-level talks with JICA and other multilateral financial institutions.

He affirmed that Nigeria is well represented at TICAD9 and actively involved in all critical diplomatic and investment negotiations. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

‎TICAD9: Tinubu arrives in Japan, seeks to bolster Asia-Nigeria investment
Foreign

‎TICAD9: Tinubu arrives in Japan, seeks to bolster Asia-Nigeria investment

‎‎By Muhyideen Jimoh

‎President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Tokyo, Japan, to attend the ninth edition of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9).
‎
‎Presidential spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga said President Tinubu touched down in Tokyo early Tuesday (local time) for the high-level summit.
‎
‎The President will join other African leaders, development partners, and stakeholders at the influential international forum.
‎
‎The event which will be held from Aug. 20 to Aug. 22 at the Pacifico Yokohama, will serve as a strategic platform for the President to strengthen and attract Asian investors to Nigeria.
‎
‎President Tinubu was received at the Presidential Wing of the Haneda International Airport, Tokyo, by Amb. Hideo Matsubara, the Ambassador in charge of Haneda Airport for TICAD.
‎
‎Also present were Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and officials from the Nigerian Embassy after the plane touched down at 00:50 am local time.
‎
‎Initiated by the Japanese government, TICAD is co-hosted by the UN, UNDP, African Union Commission, and the World Bank.
‎
‎The triennial summit alternates between Japan and Africa, with Tunisia hosting the last edition.
‎
‎TICAD9 is themed “Co-create Innovative Solutions with Africa,” focusing on economic transformation through innovation and private investment.
‎
‎It also aims to foster a resilient and sustainable African society rooted in peace, stability, and human security.
‎
‎During the conference, President Tinubu will hold bilateral meetings and participate in high-profile meetings with the chief executive officers of some Japanese companies with investments in Nigeria.
‎
‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Tinubu’s participation in TICAD9 marks his first official visit to Japan since assuming office in May 2023, a milestone in his foreign diplomacy.
‎
‎His participation signals Nigeria’s commitment to deeper ties with Japan, leveraging innovation and strategic collaboration at TICAD9.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
‎
Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Tinubu’s State Visit: Nigeria, Brazil to sign MoU on direct flight
General News

Tinubu’s State Visit: Nigeria, Brazil to sign MoU on direct flight

By Gabriel Agbeja

The Federal Republic of Nigeria is set to sign Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federative Republic of Brazil on Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) to unlock direct flight.

Mr Obafemi Bajomo, Special Adviser on Foreign Direct Investments to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.

Bajomo said that the final documents and instruments in the BASA are ready for exchange and execution with the Brazilian authorities during the visit of President Bola Tinubu to Brazil.

NAN reports that Tinubu left Abuja on Aug. 15, for a two-nation working visit to Japan and Brazil.

In a statement issued by the Presidency, Tinubu will participate in the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) holding in Yokohama from Aug. 20 to Aug 22.

From Japan, the President will proceed to Brasilia on Aug. 24 for a two-day state visit on the invitation of Brazilian President Luiz Lula da Silva.

Bajomo told NAN that, Mr Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development , will join President Tinubu on the high-profile State visit to Brasilia for the signing of the agreement.

According to him, the BASA is expected to pave way for four to five weekly direct flights, likely operated by Nigerian carriers such as Air Peace and Caverton, marking a new chapter in South Atlantic aviation.

“At the heart of this visit lies a long-anticipated breakthrough, signing of BASA, a milestone that promises to redefine air connectivity, trade, and cultural exchange between the two largest economies in Africa and South America.

“This journey began in May 2025, when the Minister led a Nigerian delegation to Brazil to open formal bilateral talks with his counterpart, Brazil’s Minister of Ports and Airports, Silvio Costa Filho.

“ Those discussions, held in Brasília went beyond ceremonial pleasantries, they birthed a technical working group tasked with harmonising the BASA for imminent signature, “ he said.

According to him, both nations committed to bypassing bureaucratic bottlenecks, pushing the agreement from discussion to execution in record time.

“Today, that vision stands on the cusp of reality, with all statutory processes and ministerial vetting.

“Also, legal clearance by the Federal Ministry of Justice, and Federal Executive Council approval—already completed.

“The direct flights by the BASA will reduce travel time, cut logistics costs, and open new trade corridors for agricultural products, manufactured goods, and services.

“For Nigerian exporters, Brazilian markets will become more accessible than ever before.

“With deep-rooted Yoruba heritage woven into Brazil’s history, this agreement reactivates centuries-old cultural bonds, opening opportunities for tourism, festivals, and people-to-people exchanges, “ he said.

Beyond air routes, Bajomo added that both ministers had mapped out plans for technical cooperation including pilot training and airport infrastructure upgrades among others to position Nigeria as a stronger player in global aviation.

“If signed as planned, the BASA will be a bridge of opportunity. It will connect two continents through commerce, tourism, and share aspirations, strengthening not only economic resilience but also cultural understanding.

“As Nigeria and Brazil prepare to ink this historic deal, they are not just signing an agreement—they are writing a new chapter in transcontinental partnership, one that could resonate for generations, “ he said.

Bajomo quoted Keyamo as describing Nigeria and Brazil as twins separated at birth, now reunited, signaling cultural and economic depth of the relationship. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh/Rotimi Ijikanmi

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