Tinubu has urged Petrobras to revive Nigerian operations as Nigeria, Brazil open a direct air link.
President Bola Tinubu on Monday urged Brazilian oil giant Petrobras to return to Nigeria, stressing its critical role in unlocking the country’s vast gas resources and driving economic growth.
Speaking after being received by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at the Planalto Palace in Brasília, Tinubu said the invitation to Petrobras was at the center of renewed Nigeria–Brazil cooperation.
“We have the largest deposit of gas. I don’t see why Petrobras will not be back in Nigeria as soon as possible. And I appreciate President Lula promising that that will be done as soon as possible,” Tinubu declared, signalling a timely revival of the company’s operations in West Africa’s largest economy.
Reflecting on historical ties, Tinubu admitted past challenges had slowed relations but vowed that era was over. “We’ve allowed some problems, inactivity, and the past to deter worries, progress, and a promise. But today we say that is the end of that,” he said.
The president noted it was his third visit to Brazil, following engagements on the G20 and climate change, and described the current talks as “emotionally laden and fact-based.” He expressed gratitude to Lula for the invitation and for advancing cooperation despite language barriers.
“We’re fighting and working hard to bring our sovereignty to the level of expectation that we as a nation, an African nation, the most populous country, the most dynamic country, Nigeria, [need] to share with Brazil what we need to share with each other,” he said.
Beyond energy, Tinubu highlighted technology transfer and economic cooperation. “Let Brazil continue to widen the opportunity for us to embrace Africa. Africa is a new frontier. There’s no other way to do it but to embrace both the technology, science development, research and development, food sovereignty, and manufacturing techniques,” he stressed, assuring Nigerians that “the various MOUs are already signed.”
On aviation links, Tinubu underlined Nigeria’s proximity to Brazil. “When you look at the geography and the map of the world between Brazil and Africa, you see a contiguous little narrow strip of water. Even a very good swimmer can swim across easily,” he quipped, before stressing: “Aviation will provide additional opportunity for business to grow, culture to succeed, and everyone to benefit.”
Earlier, Lula reaffirmed Brazil’s strong alliance with Nigeria, underscoring shared commitments in trade, agriculture, and cultural exchange. He welcomed the launch of direct flights between Lagos and São Paulo as the start of a “Cultural Renaissance” that would deepen people-to-people ties.
On pharmaceuticals, Tinubu urged joint ventures with Brazil. “I don’t see why manufacturing of generic drugs, which Brazil has gone very, very deep for, cannot be happening in Nigeria. We assure each other that it is only us that can really develop our economies to help our sovereignty.”
The President also pointed to Nigeria’s youthful population as a key driver of growth. “We have a youth population in Nigeria that is restless, willing, and energetic, brilliant, ready to learn, ready to work, ready to exchange ideas,” he said.
He insisted Nigeria’s natural resources must become active contributors to prosperity. “Nigeria has been proven as the 10th largest producer of nitrogen in the world. An asset that is not yielding commercial activities is a dead asset. We don’t want that. We want it to be active, promising everybody for our people.”
Tinubu outlined reforms since his inauguration over two years ago, calling the journey “initially painful, but today the result is blossoming.” He added, “It’s getting clearer to the people. We have more money to the economy, no more corruption… In our currency market, the door is open for businesses.”
He also assured Nigerians of political unity behind the agreements: “We have our parliamentary leaders who are with us, collaborating and cooperating to do what is right for our people. Brazil and Nigeria are here to grow the economy for the people, by the people, and for the people of the world.”
He also praised Nigeria’s rising global profile, endorsing its bid for membership of the G20 and a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
On security, Lula called for joint action against transnational crime. “Nigeria supports Brazil’s membership in Interpol’s executive body,” he noted, stressing cooperation in law enforcement.
Climate change was another focal point. Lula lamented Africa’s disproportionate suffering despite being the continent with the least greenhouse emissions and said Brazil looked forward to joint efforts ahead of COP30. He commended Tinubu’s commitment to “support tropical forests forever.”
Recognizing cultural bonds, Lula said, “Brazil is aware of the power of culture and music,” describing them as vital links between the two nations. He also acknowledged Nigeria’s readiness to support technology transfer across Africa, saying: “Brazil needs help with technology transfer in Africa.”
On the gains of the visit, Lula concluded: “This will help Africa in mutual respect to accelerate growth and development,” reaffirming that the partnership was built on shared values and cooperation.
