In a proactive effort to enhance cultural collaboration between Brazil and Nigeria, the President/CEO of the Brazilian Tourist Board (Embratur), Marcelo Freixo, has announced plans to establish a committee dedicated to identifying Brazilian festivals and carnivals that could be successfully adapted for celebration in Nigeria.

He emphasised the deep connection between Brazil’s history and Yoruba culture, highlighting that discussions about Brazil are incomplete without acknowledging this significant heritage.

Freixo pointed out that the carnival from Bahia would be a particularly fitting choice, with a test run of this vibrant festival scheduled for December 2026.

This announcement came during a recent meeting with Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, the Executive Secretary/CEO of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), in Brasilia, Brazil.

Freixo encouraged NICO to engage with the Nigerian federal government or relevant state authorities to discuss the preparations for this exciting cultural exchange.

He noted the significant influence of Nigerians, especially Yoruba descendants and Orisha devotees, who constitute about 58 per cent of Brazil’s population, holding considerable political, social, and religious influence.

“Nigerians, particularly Yoruba descendants and Orisha devotees account for about 58 per cent of Brazil’s population where they not only have political power but also social and religious power,” he concluded.