The Group Managing Director and Chief Executive of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, Oliver Alawuba, has called for stronger trade and investment ties between Nigeria and Brazil. He pointed out many chances for cooperation in agriculture, manufacturing, energy, technology, and the creative industries.
Alawuba made this statement in Abuja on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. This was during the celebration of Brazil’s National Day, which the Embassy of Brazil hosted in Nigeria.
While congratulating the Brazilian Government and its people, the UBA leader said the long-standing relationship between the two countries goes beyond just diplomacy. It includes a shared history, cultural heritage, and a strong bond between their people.
He remembered that Brazil attended Nigeria’s independence celebrations in 1960. He called this gesture a valued foundation for the relationship between both countries. He also noted the lasting impact of Afro-Brazilian heritage in Nigeria, especially in the Lagos Aguda communities, where Brazilian architecture, food, and culture still thrive.
Alawuba stated that the common entrepreneurial spirit, cultural diversity, love for music, and passion for football shared by Nigerians and Brazilians form a solid base for growing commercial ties.
He revealed that bilateral trade in goods between Nigeria and Brazil was about US$2.4 billion in 2025. He emphasized that there is still a lot of room to boost economic exchange and open new business opportunities for both countries.
He mentioned the US$1.1 billion Green Imperative Agricultural Mechanization Programme as an example of the chances that could arise from merging Brazilian expertise and equipment with Nigerian businesses to enhance productivity, food security, and create jobs.
Speaking about UBA’s reach across Africa, he explained that the bank operates in 20 African countries and also in the United States, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, and France. This positions UBA well to support trade and investment between Africa and Brazil through its extensive network and financial strength.
Alawuba expressed gratitude for the strong relationship between the bank and the Embassy of Brazil. He said this partnership, built on trust and respect since 2019, would continue to grow through dedicated service and closer cooperation.
He also took the chance to praise the kindness of the Brazilian people, the wealth of their culture, and the potential of their future. He is hopeful that the long-standing friendship between Nigeria and Brazil will lead to shared economic success.
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