Nigeria and BRICS: Understanding Akinyemi’s Concerns
Former Minister of External Affairs, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, has criticized Nigeria’s decision to accept an invitation to become a BRICS partner, stating that it is a “slap in our face.” Akinyemi argued that Nigeria should not have accepted the offer, as it undermines the country’s status and influence on the global stage.
According to him, Nigeria should have been considered for full membership rather than being offered a secondary role as a partner. He emphasized that Nigeria’s economic and geopolitical influence in Africa warranted a more significant position within BRICS, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
Akinyemi further stressed that the Nigerian government should have carefully evaluated the implications before agreeing to the partnership, warning that it could weaken Nigeria’s strategic interests and diplomatic leverage in international affairs.