Tinubu Congratulates Lula on Re-election, Seeks Stronger Nigeria–Brazil Ties

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on his re-election, expressing Nigeria’s readiness to strengthen bilateral cooperation in trade, agriculture, energy, education and technology.

Tinubu conveyed the message in a statement issued by the State House on Monday, October 26, following Lula’s victory in Brazil’s presidential election on Sunday.

The Nigerian president described Lula as a friend and said his renewed mandate presented an opportunity to strengthen the longstanding relationship between both countries.

Tinubu also highlighted the potential for Nigeria and Brazil, which he described as leading nations of the Global South, to promote economic integration and advance shared interests in a changing global order.

He identified trade and investment, agriculture and food security, oil and gas, manufacturing, science and technology, education, aviation and cultural exchange as areas where cooperation could be expanded.

The Nigerian leader reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working with Brazil on multilateral cooperation and shared priorities across Africa, South America and the wider Global South.

He also wished Lula success in his new term on behalf of the Nigerian people.

Brazil’s Superior Electoral Court confirmed Lula’s re-election after Sunday’s run-off election. Official results showed that he secured 51.79 per cent of valid votes, defeating his opponent, Flávio Bolsonaro, who received 48.21 per cent.

Lula’s victory gives him a fourth presidential term, following his previous election victories in 2002, 2006 and 2022. His new term is scheduled to begin on January 5, 2027.

Tinubu’s message signals Nigeria’s interest in building on its longstanding relationship with Brazil, with both countries identifying economic cooperation and shared international priorities as areas for further engagement.