By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
Nigeria is seeking to deepen its economic and strategic partnership with India and other emerging economies as Vice President Kashim Shettima leads the country’s delegation to the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi.
Shettima is representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the summit, where Nigeria is expected to explore opportunities in trade, investment, agriculture, technology, manufacturing and industrial development.
The Vice President is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole; Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani; and Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal.
Nigeria became a BRICS partner country in January 2025 and has since used the platform to strengthen South-South cooperation and expand its economic and diplomatic engagement with major emerging economies.
A major focus of Nigeria’s participation at the summit is expected to be India’s experience in technology, artificial intelligence and the digital economy, particularly in creating opportunities for the country’s large and youthful population.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said India’s success in harnessing technology and engaging its youth offered valuable lessons for Nigeria.
She identified agriculture, the digital economy, artificial intelligence and women’s participation in the technology sector as areas where Nigeria could benefit from India’s expertise.
According to the minister, Nigeria is determined to leverage India’s experience in engaging its youth population to promote innovation, economic growth and inclusive development.
The engagement at the BRICS summit is expected to further strengthen Nigeria’s ties with India while opening new avenues for cooperation in key sectors of the economy.
