President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on his re-election, expressing Nigeria’s readiness to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, energy and technology.
Mr Tinubu described Lula as his friend and said the Brazilian leader’s renewed mandate offered an opportunity to deepen the longstanding relationship between both countries.
The Nigerian president stated this in a congratulatory message issued by the State House in Abuja on Monday, October 26, 2026.
He said Nigeria and Brazil, as leading nations of the Global South, could work together to promote economic integration and advance their shared interests amid changes in the global order.
“I congratulate my friend, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil, on his re-election for a record fourth term,” Tinubu said.
He noted that diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Brazil dated back to 1961, describing the relationship as a longstanding friendship that could be strengthened through expanded economic and strategic cooperation.
Tinubu said his administration was looking forward to working with Lula’s government to unlock more opportunities for both countries across several sectors.
“I look forward to expanding cooperation in trade and investment, agriculture and food security, energy, oil and gas, manufacturing, science and technology, education, aviation, and cultural exchange,” he said.
The president’s message highlighted areas in which both countries could deepen collaboration, particularly in economic development, food production, industrial growth and technological advancement.
Nigeria and Brazil are major economies in their respective regions, with both countries belonging to the Global South, a grouping of developing countries seeking greater representation and influence in international economic and political affairs.
Tinubu said closer cooperation between the two countries would also provide an opportunity to advance their common interests in international affairs and strengthen multilateral engagement.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to working with Brazil on shared priorities across Africa, South America and the wider Global South.
“I affirm Nigeria’s continued commitment to working with Brazil to strengthen multilateral cooperation and advance shared priorities in Africa, South America, and across the Global South,” he said.
Tinubu expressed optimism about Lula’s new term and wished the Brazilian leader success in office on behalf of the Nigerian people.
“On behalf of the people of Nigeria, I wish you a successful new term in office,” he said.
The congratulatory message underscored the Nigerian government’s intention to maintain cordial relations with Brazil and explore opportunities for closer cooperation in areas that could deliver economic and diplomatic benefits to both countries.