Vice President Kashim Shettima has highlighted Nigeria’s economic potential and strategic position within Africa while representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 2026 BRICS Summit in New Delhi.

Shettima’s participation at the summit forms part of the Federal Government’s effort to deepen economic relationships with BRICS countries and attract stronger investment partnerships.

Nigeria has presented itself as a major African market and a potential gateway to opportunities created by the African Continental Free Trade Area.

The country’s large domestic market and position within Africa’s largest economic integration project are important elements of the investment case being presented by the Federal Government.

The BRICS summit offers Nigeria an opportunity to engage with major emerging economies on trade, investment and development.

Shettima’s presence also allows the government to communicate its economic priorities directly to leaders and senior officials attending the high-level meeting.

The Nigerian government has repeatedly emphasised the importance of attracting investment as part of efforts to expand economic activity and create opportunities.

At the New Delhi summit, Nigeria’s message was also linked to the need for stronger practical cooperation.

The government wants international partnerships to produce tangible outcomes rather than remain at the level of diplomatic declarations.

Nigeria’s participation comes as BRICS continues to serve as an important platform for cooperation among emerging economies and developing countries.

The summit is discussing issues including global economic governance, trade, investment and development.

Nigeria is participating as a BRICS partner country rather than a full member of the bloc.

Its participation nevertheless gives Abuja an avenue to strengthen relationships with countries represented within the expanded BRICS framework.

Shettima’s economic diplomacy at the summit is therefore focused on positioning Nigeria within wider discussions about the future of global trade and investment.

The government also sees stronger international economic relationships as complementary to domestic reforms being pursued under the Tinubu administration.

Nigeria’s presentation at the summit is expected to keep investment, trade and economic cooperation at the centre of its engagement with BRICS partners.

The broader objective is to ensure that Nigeria’s participation in international economic forums translates into stronger relationships and opportunities for the country’s economy.