Nigeria's Active Role in Global Decision-Making
President Bola Tinubu has emphasized that Nigeria will not remain a passive observer in global discussions on critical issues such as financial restructuring, debt relief, climate change, environmental protection, and healthcare. His remarks were made during the 17th meeting of the Global South and Emerging Economies bloc, BRICS, held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The Nigerian President highlighted that environmental degradation, the climate crisis, and healthcare disparities are significant challenges that require more global attention. These issues, he noted, hinder growth and development, especially in regions like Africa. According to a statement from his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu called for a reevaluation of the current global governance structure and the financial and healthcare systems. He urged greater equity and inclusion for low-income and emerging economies, particularly in Africa.
Tinubu stated, “Nigeria, therefore, associates with what I have heard today and all that has happened in BRICS. The next issues are financial restructuring and reevaluation of the global structure.” He pointed out that environmental degradation, climate crises, and global healthcare inequalities are shared concerns that affect Africa significantly. “Africa has contributed the least to global emissions but suffers the most,” he added.
The President emphasized the need for a new path of justice, anchored in fairness, sustainable technology transfer, and accessible financing, so that emerging economies can fully benefit from various initiatives. He mentioned that the African continent is taking steps through initiatives like the African Carbon Market Initiative and the Great Green Wall. Tinubu expressed confidence that COP-30 will strengthen efforts to adopt a strategic approach to achieving a healthy global environment.
Commitment to South-South Cooperation
Nigeria strongly believes in South-South cooperation and cannot afford to be passive participants in global decision-making on financial restructuring, debt forgiveness, climate change, environmental issues, and healthcare. The President stressed the importance of addressing the specific needs and concerns of youths, who make up 70% of Nigeria’s population. He reiterated Nigeria’s long-term vision, the 2050 plan, and its nationally determined contribution to global efforts.
Tinubu outlined several bold steps being taken to accelerate renewable energy adoption, mainstream climate action, promote nature-based solutions, strengthen urban resilience, champion South-South cooperation, align with the global renewal framework, and achieve universal health coverage for all. He also highlighted the importance of addressing non-communicable diseases as a collective health concern.
BRICS and Global Health
As the world approaches COP-30 and looks to strengthen the global health system, Tinubu emphasized that BRICS must serve as more than just a bloc for emerging economies. It should also act as a beacon for emerging solutions and resolutions rooted in solidarity, self-reliance, sustainability, and shared prosperity for a common future. Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to strategic collaboration that translates into sustainable and inclusive development for all.
Tinubu was invited to the summit by Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva. Nigeria became the ninth partner country of BRICS in January 2025, joining Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. The 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan in October 2024 created the partner-country category.
Nigeria's Role in BRICS
Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mr Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance, accompanied the President to the summit. As the world’s sixth-most populous country and one of Africa’s major economies, Nigeria shares convergent interests with other BRICS members. Nigeria plays an active role in strengthening South-South cooperation and reforming global governance, which are top priorities during Brazil’s current presidency.
Nigeria’s formal admission as a partner country was announced by the Brazilian government during its pro tempore presidency of BRICS on January 17, 2025. This move underscores Nigeria’s growing influence and commitment to collaborative global efforts.
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