Vice President Kashim Shettima said Nigeria is witnessing a silent but bold transformation under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

Mr Shettima said this on Wednesday at the Nigeria–Brazil Business Forum tagged, “Roots to Revenue: The Nigeria–Brazil Corridor,” held in Abuja.

The vice-president said that the renewed strategic alliance with Brazil was “grounded in intent, and rich in the potential for mutual growth.’’

According to him, Brazil’s journey, especially the strides in agriculture, energy, infrastructure and industrial development, speaks to ongoing transformation in Nigeria.

He stated, “Under the leadership of President Tinubu, Nigeria is undergoing a quiet but resolute transformation. Markets are being opened; Institutions are being rebuilt; Policies are being refocused. What drives these changes is a seriousness of purpose that goes beyond reform for reform’s sake. What we seek are partners who see our direction, respect our ambition, and are prepared to walk the path with us.’’

Mr Shettima, who underscored the need for the strategic alliance with Brazil, noted that Nigeria was embarking on a journey like that of the South American country.

He stated, “Our Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones are taking form. Our farmers are ready to operate at scale. But we know the difference between going alone and going far. Brazil can stand with us in this effort, not as a donor, but as a partner in innovation, in training and in investment. We are equally attentive to your leadership in clean energy. Nigeria’s energy transition is rooted in what we can control.

“We are harnessing our gas reserves to power our industries and transportation, while also advancing our renewable energy ambitions. Brazil’s example provides guidance that is real and tested. We are eager to learn from your experience in building an energy economy that creates jobs, supports industries and expands access to rural communities. Our teams are ready to engage on how to move from policy to practice, from ideas to infrastructure.’’

The vice president disclosed that Nigeria was encouraged by Brazil’s interest in skills development and human capital.

According to him, it aligns perfectly with one of the most pressing national goals, which is to ensure that the youthful country is prepared for future demands.

He added, “We welcome the opportunity for institutional partnerships that promote training, research and the exchange of knowledge in sectors where Brazil has built strength, and in areas where Nigeria is gaining ground.”

The Vice-President of Brazil, Geraldo Alckmin, reaffirmed Brazil’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Nigeria through long-term cooperation, shared innovation, and mutual economic growth.

Mr Alckmin described the moment as “one of the most promising” in the history of Nigeria-Brazil diplomatic and commercial relations.

He stated, “This is a necessary complement to deepen our relations. We want this moment to correspond to the production of sustainable partnerships for our people.’’

He highlighted the potential in key sectors such as agriculture, defence, innovation, and energy.

Mr Alckmin acknowledged that, despite the strong historic and cultural ties, trade volumes between both countries are still much lower than the potential.

He noted, “Our trade is growing, but it can increase tremendously. Brazil is ready to work with Nigeria to build a commercially successful South-South corridor.’’

Mr Alckmin also spoke on the Green Imperative Initiative (GPI), a 1.1 billion dollars programme to transfer Brazilian agricultural technology to Nigeria, as a model of transformative South-South cooperation.

He said that Brazil does not just export products, but offer solutions and ideas, adding that under President Lula’s administration, Brazil has simplified its tax regime.

He added that Brazil was exploring a direct flight route to Nigeria to ease business travel and trade.

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, called for a reset in the bilateral trade dynamic, lamenting the current two billion dollars trade volume, down from $9 billion a decade ago.

“The Nigeria-Brazil corridor is not a nostalgic idea; it is realistic and achievable. Let us walk the talk and ensure our deliberations yield results,” she said.

Ms Oduwole outlined Nigeria’s priority sectors for investment, including agro-industrial value chains, digital trade, the creative economy, and pharmaceuticals.

She also highlighted efforts by the Nigerian government to streamline investors’ engagement through a digital portal tracking live project pipelines.

“We are serious about institutional delivery. Our agencies—NEPC, NIPC, PEBEC, NASENI—are working as one team,” she noted.

The Director-General, Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), Zarah Mustapha, emphasised state-level reforms as critical to unlocking sub-national investments.

(NAN)