By Abubakar Ojima-Ojo
Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin arrived in Abuja on Tuesday for the second session of the Nigeria–Brazil Strategic Dialogue Mechanism (SDM), aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between both nations.
Accompanied by his wife, Maria Lúcia Alckmin, the Vice President touched down at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, where top Nigerian officials received him.
Among those present to welcome the Brazilian delegation were the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia; the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole; the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha; and the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari.
The high-level diplomatic visit marks the beginning of a three-day summit expected to culminate in the signing of over 30 Memoranda of Understanding across key sectors, including defence cooperation, agricultural technology transfer, energy collaboration, health, education, and cultural exchange.
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Vice President Kashim Shettima will host Alckmin throughout his visit, which will feature several joint events, including the opening ceremony of the Strategic Dialogue on Tuesday morning at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.
According to the Office of the Vice President, the SDM provides a framework for both countries to deepen cooperation on strategic priorities.
A joint press conference by the Foreign Ministers of Nigeria and Brazil is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon, also at the State House.
Later that evening, a Nigeria–Brazil Gala Dinner will be hosted by Vice President Shettima in honour of the visiting delegation.
Speaking during the airport reception, Senator Hadejia described the visit as “a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” stressing the importance of forging stronger ties with Brazil.
“This dialogue mechanism represents our commitment to leveraging South–South partnerships that deliver tangible benefits to our citizens.
“Brazil’s expertise in agribusiness, energy transition, and industrial development aligns perfectly with Nigeria’s transformation priorities and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.
