By Zainab Bakare
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening cooperation within the BRICS framework, describing its participation at the group’s 20th anniversary meeting as a significant milestone in advancing global partnership, resilience, and sustainable development.
According to a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria’s position is conveyed during the ongoing BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi, India.
Speaking on behalf of the Government and people of Nigeria, the permanent secretary ministry of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Duonuma Ahmed expressed appreciation to the Government and people of India for their hospitality and for the smooth organisation of the meeting hosted by the Government of India.
Four-Pillar Framework for Engagement
He stated that its engagement within BRICS is anchored on four key pillars resilience, innovation, cooperation, and sustainability describing them not as abstract ideals, but as central components of its national development strategy and foreign policy orientation.
Resilience Through Economic Diversification
On resilience, Ambassador Ahmed highlighted ongoing economic reforms aimed at diversifying its economy beyond oil, with increased investment in agriculture, manufacturing, and the services sector.
He also underscored its leadership role within the ECOWAS, particularly in peacekeeping, mediation, and regional security operations.
Driving Growth Through Innovation
On innovation, the permanent secretary pointed to the rapid expansion of its technology ecosystem, including fintech growth, digital platforms, and agritech solutions.
He reference national initiatives such as digital literacy programmes and youth innovation schemes designed to enhance skills development, inclusion, and participation in the global digital economy.
Strengthening Cooperation and Multilateral Ties
On cooperation, Nigeria reiterated its commitment to regional integration under ECOWAS and its support for multilateral platforms such as BRICS, calling for stronger collaboration in trade, infrastructure development, investment flows, and people-to-people exchanges.
It also highlighted engagement with institutions such as the New Development Bank as a key instrument for shared development financing.
Commitment to Environmental Sustainability
On sustainability, Nigeria restate its Energy Transition Plan targeting net-zero emissions by 2060, alongside growing investments in renewable energy, green finance, and climate resilience programmes.
It stresses that global environmental challenges require collective action and stronger South-South cooperation.
Advancing Global South Representation
Nigeria further note its participation in BRICS reflects its commitment to amplifying the voice of Africa and the Global South, while advocating for a more inclusive global governance architecture built on solidarity, equity, and mutual respect.
It adds that ongoing domestic reforms under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu are strengthening the country’s capacity to contribute meaningfully to global partnerships.
Edited by Chinedu Echianu
