Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially commenced a crucial two-day state visit to Brazil, arriving in Brasília in the early hours of Monday.
The Nigerian presidential aircraft, Air Force One (NAF-001) nicknamed “Eagle One,” landed at Brasília International Airport around 12:30 a.m. local time, corresponding to 4:30 a.m. Nigerian time.
Reception by Brazilian and Nigerian Officials
The Nigerian leader was received by Carlos Duarte, Brazil’s Secretary for Africa and the Middle East; Carlos José Moreno Garcete, Brazil’s Ambassador to Nigeria; and Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.
At his hotel, President Tinubu was welcomed by House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abass, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and other senior officials including Ministers Wale Edun, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Jumoke Oduwole, Mohammed Idris, Idi Maiha, and Uche Nnaji.
Diplomatic Engagements with Brazilian Leaders
Frontpagenews.ng reports that Tinubu will hold talks with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at the Planalto Palace. The discussions are expected to culminate in the signing of bilateral agreements and a joint press briefing.
In addition, he will meet with the President of the Brazilian Senate, the President of the Chamber of Deputies, and the President of the Supreme Federal Court.
Strategic Focus on Bilateral Growth
Tinubu’s mission emphasizes aviation, security cooperation, energy transition, agribusiness, and cultural exchange. A landmark feature of the visit is the anticipated Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA), designed to establish direct commercial flights between Nigeria and Brazil.
The Nigeria-Brazil Business Forum will also bring together private sector players to explore investment opportunities in key sectors.
