Vice President Kashim Shettima affirms that Nigeria and Brazil are united by a common heritage and shared purpose, highlighting the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties that bind both nations.
He made the statement on Tuesday as he officially opened the second session of the Nigeria-Brazil Strategic Dialogue in Abuja.
Welcoming Brazil’s Vice President Geraldo Alckmin and his high-powered delegation to Nigeria, VP Shettima described the partnership between the two nations as a model for South-South cooperation, grounded in mutual respect and pragmatic ambition.
“With the largest Afro-Brazilian population in the world after Nigeria, Brazil is more than a distant ally, we are cultural siblings. What binds us together far outweighs anything that could divide us,” VP Shettima stated.
He highlighted Nigeria’s emerging demographic influence on the global stage, noting its current population of over 230 million and projections to become the third most populous country by 2050, and the most populous by the end of the century.
“Our strategic trajectory, especially in global health and human development, is increasingly African.
“Nigeria stands ready to help shape that future with partners like Brazil,” Shettima noted.
The Vice President emphasised that the Nigeria-Brazil Strategic Dialogue is not a ceremonial gathering but a working platform built to drive implementation, collaboration, and tangible progress across key sectors.
“Today’s dialogue is built not just on diplomacy, but on structure. Our working groups are not mere task teams, they are the custodians of implementation.
“They must convert ministerial intent into deliverable frameworks with clear timelines and shared accountability,” said the Vice President.
Shettima called on all participants, government officials, Ministers, and technical teams, to approach the dialogue with discipline, purpose, and a readiness to coordinate across sectors, including agriculture, health, trade, defence, education, and energy.
“As we move forward, let us listen first, ask the right questions, and build the habits of coordination that this strategic partnership requires,” he urged.
He commended Brazil’s progressive stance on global development and inclusive cooperation.
“While parts of the world retreat into isolation, Brazil continues to lead with creativity and openness,” he said