Brazil, which will hold the BRICS presidency in 2025, announced on January 17 the official inclusion of Nigeria into the bloc as a partner country.
This was stated in a press release on the website of the Brazilian government.
“Nigeria, the sixth most populous country in the world and the largest in Africa, as well as one of the continent's largest economies, shares common interests with other BRICS members,” the statement reads.
According to the Brazilian government, Nigeria has become the ninth partner country of BRICS, joining Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.
It is noted that Nigeria plays an active role in reforming global governance and has been congratulated on its decision to join the bloc.
For reference.
BRICS is an alliance of the largest developing countries by area and population, formed in 2006. The organization includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. BRICS positions itself as an alternative to institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, where union members believe Western countries dominate.
Background. Previously, Mind reported that Indonesia officially joined BRICS. This is the first country from Southeast Asia to become a full member of BRICS.