Tinubu Seeks BRICS Investment in AI, Minerals
President Bola Tinubu has called for deeper cooperation with BRICS countries in artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, fintech, telecommunications, critical minerals and advanced manufacturing, as Nigeria seeks investment to accelerate economic transformation.
Speaking at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 13, 2026, Vice President Kashim Shettima delivered Tinubu’s message, stressing that Nigeria views BRICS engagement as an opportunity to attract capital, facilitate technology transfer and strengthen South-South cooperation.
Tinubu said Nigeria wants BRICS cooperation to extend beyond conventional trade to technology-driven sectors. “We seek an open, secure and inclusive digital ecosystem, advancing innovation, digital trade, responsible artificial intelligence and cyber security,” Shettima stated.
He emphasised that developing countries must move beyond being consumers of technology.
“A nation that owns no technology risks renting its future,” he warned, urging partnerships in AI, biotechnology and advanced manufacturing.
Nigeria also invited BRICS investors to leverage its position in the African Continental Free Trade Area.
With a population of 250 million and an average age of 16.9, Tinubu said Nigeria’s youthful population is its greatest asset, driving innovation through programmes like 3MTT, Project BRIDGE and national AI initiatives.
Nigeria formally joined BRICS as a partner country in January 2025, alongside Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda and Uzbekistan.
Brazil, then holding the bloc’s presidency, said Nigeria’s inclusion reflected its role in promoting South-South cooperation.
BRICS now brings together 11 major emerging economies, including Brazil, China, India, Russia, South Africa and Saudi Arabia. Nigeria hopes its partner status will open opportunities in trade, investment and cross-border financial cooperation, aligning with its push for global financial reform and stronger multilateral ties.