President Bola Ahmed Tinubu touched down in Brasília in the early hours of Monday for a two-day state visit designed to strengthen Nigeria’s partnership with Brazil.
The Nigerian Air Force One (NAF-001), popularly known as Eagle One, arrived at Brasília International Airport at about 12:30 a.m. local time (4:30 a.m. Nigerian time). Tinubu was welcomed by Carlos Duarte, Brazil’s Secretary for Africa and the Middle East; Carlos José Moreno Garcete, Brazil’s Ambassador to Nigeria; and several senior Nigerian officials, including Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu.
On arrival at his hotel, the President was received by prominent Nigerian leaders such as Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Finance Minister Wale Edun, Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, and Trade and Investment Minister Jumoke Oduwole. Others present included Information Minister Mohammed Idris, Livestock Development Minister Idi Maiha, and Innovation, Science and Technology Minister Uche Nnaji.
During his visit, Tinubu is expected to hold talks with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at the Planalto Palace. Both leaders will witness the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) before addressing a joint press briefing.
The President’s schedule also includes meetings with the heads of Brazil’s Senate, Chamber of Deputies, and Supreme Federal Court. He will participate in the Nigeria-Brazil Business Forum, which brings together business leaders from both nations to explore new areas of cooperation.
Key discussions will center on aviation, agribusiness, livestock, security, trade, and cultural exchanges. Particular attention will be given to collaboration in agriculture, energy transition, and regional security.
A major highlight of the trip is the expected signing of a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA), which would pave the way for direct flights between Nigeria and Brazil.
