President Bola Tinubu on Monday called on Brazilian oil major Petrobras to resume operations in Nigeria, highlighting the company’s key role in harnessing the nation’s extensive gas reserves and boosting economic growth.

Tinubu made the remarks after meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at the Planalto Palace in Brasília, describing the Petrobras invitation as a cornerstone of revitalised Nigeria–Brazil relations.

“We have the largest deposit of gas. I don’t see why Petrobras will not be back in Nigeria as soon as possible. And I appreciate President Lula promising that that will be done as soon as possible,” Tinubu declared, signalling a timely revival of the company’s operations in West Africa’s largest economy.

Tinubu acknowledged that past challenges had hindered bilateral relations but insisted that era was behind them. “We’ve allowed some problems, inactivities and the past to deter worries, a progress and a promise. But today we say that is the end of that,” he said.

The President highlighted that this was his third visit to Brazil, following previous engagements on the G20 and climate change, describing the current discussions as “emotionally charged and grounded in facts.” He thanked President Lula for the invitation and for fostering cooperation despite language differences.

The President remarked that this was his third visit to Brazil, after participating in G20 and climate change discussions, describing the current talks as “emotionally laden and fact-based.”

The President noted that this marked his third visit to Brazil, following previous engagements on the G20 and climate change, calling the current discussions “emotionally charged and fact-driven.” He thanked President Lula for the invitation and for fostering collaboration despite language differences.

“We’re fighting and working hard to bring our sovereignty to the level of expectation that we as a nation, an African nation, the most populous country, the most dynamic country, Nigeria, [need] to share with Brazil what we need to share with each other,” he said.

Tinubu emphasized the importance of technology transfer and broader economic cooperation.

“Let Brazil continue to widen the opportunity for us to embrace Africa. Africa is a new frontier. There’s no other way to do it but to embrace both the technology, science development, research and development, food sovereignty, and manufacturing techniques,” he stressed, assuring Nigerians that “the various MOUs are already signed.”

Earlier, President Lula reaffirmed Brazil’s strong partnership with Nigeria, highlighting shared goals in trade, agriculture, and cultural exchange. He hailed the launch of direct flights between Lagos and São Paulo as the beginning of a “Cultural Renaissance” aimed at strengthening people-to-people connections.

On security, Lula advocated for joint efforts against transnational crime. “Nigeria supports Brazil’s membership in Interpol’s executive body,” he said, emphasizing collaboration in law enforcement.

Acknowledging the cultural ties between the countries, Lula said, “Brazil is aware of the power of culture and music,” calling them essential connections between the two nations. He also recognized Nigeria’s willingness to assist with technology transfer across Africa, noting, “Brazil needs help with technology transfer in Africa.”

Reflecting on the outcomes of the visit, Lula added, “This will help Africa, based on mutual respect, to accelerate growth and development,” reaffirming that the partnership rests on shared values and collaboration.