Nigeria is poised to deepen trade ties with Brazil in key sectors such as agriculture, fertiliser, textiles and aviation, as both countries pursue practical economic cooperation under the broader framework of South-South partnerships.

This was disclosed by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, during an interview on Channels Television.
Tuggar explained that the Tinubu administration is focused on leveraging bilateral partnerships, especially with Brazil, to promote local production, drive exports, and attract foreign investment into strategic sectors.

According to the minister, Brazilian agricultural institutions and private investors are already collaborating with Nigerian partners to improve agricultural yield, fertiliser supply, and livestock development. One of the most promising collaborations is with Embrapa Brazil’s top agricultural research agency which is supporting Nigerian institutions in transforming soil quality and boosting productivity.

“Embrapa helped Brazil turn its Savannah, called the cerrado, into one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world. It was previously unsuitable for farming because of high soil acidity,” Tuggar said. “They applied research using lime, and now they’re one of the largest soybean producers globally. We’re working with them to replicate that success in Nigeria.”

Beyond research collaboration, Brazilian companies are also making financial commitments in Nigeria’s agro sector.
Tuggar revealed that a major investment worth over $2.2 billion has been pledged by a livestock conglomerate led by the Batista family prominent Brazilian agro-industrial investors. The company plans to invest in large-scale livestock farming, feed production, and processing facilities across Nigeria.

“Brazilian investors are coming in strong,” the minister said. “They see the opportunity in our livestock sector, and with the right infrastructure and support, Nigeria can become a major exporter of meat and animal feed in the near future.”
Tuggar also noted that Nigerian fertiliser companies, such as Dangote Fertiliser, are already exporting to Brazil an indication of a maturing trade relationship in agro-inputs. He said efforts are underway to expand that trade further, alongside new interests in textile raw materials.

“We’re talking about exporting polymers and synthetic fibres used for making football jerseys, face caps, and other garments,” he said. “Nigeria can become a key supplier to Brazil’s large garment industry, especially for sporting apparel.”

In the aviation sector, both countries have expressed readiness to establish direct commercial flights. According to Tuggar, plans are advanced for Nigeria’s leading airline, Air Peace, to operate a Lagos–São Paulo route, a major move that would open up trade, tourism, and diplomatic access between West Africa and South America.

“Once Air Peace secures a suitable aircraft, the Brazilian authorities have indicated that they will approve the route immediately,” he disclosed. “Both President Tinubu and President Lula have agreed on the need for speed and results. There’s a strong sense of urgency.”
The minister described this as a major step in cementing Nigeria’s role as a trade hub in Africa. “With direct flights, it will no longer take days and multiple stops for people and goods to move between Nigeria and Brazil. That will transform how we do business and interact with South America,” he said.

Tuggar also mentioned that Nigeria is exploring export opportunities in the synthetic fibre industry — crucial for Brazil’s booming sportswear manufacturing. Nigeria, with its expanding petrochemical industry, can produce the polymers needed for fabric production, positioning itself as a key input supplier.

“Trade isn’t just about finished goods anymore. It’s about integration into global value chains,” the minister said. “If we can provide the base materials synthetic fibre, fertiliser, animal feed Brazil can manufacture and re-export. That’s a win-win.”
Despite growing ties with Brazil and the broader BRICS bloc, Tuggar insisted that Nigeria’s strategy remains non-aligned and pragmatic.

“We’re not siding with any global bloc. We’re pursuing our national interest and looking for mutually beneficial partnerships,” he said.
He dismissed any fears that Nigeria’s growing partnership with BRICS countries like Brazil could strain relations with Western nations. On the contrary, Tuggar believes Nigeria’s mineral resources, industrial potential, and strategic location make it an attractive partner to both West and East.

“We maintain strong ties with the United States and the EU, and at the same time, we’re building bridges with Brazil, China, India and others. Nigeria is open for business,” he said