By Erewunmi Peace

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Nigeria following a two-week diplomatic tour that took him to the Caribbean nation of Saint Lucia and later to Brazil, where he participated in the 17th BRICS Summit.

The president touched down at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja in the early hours of Sunday, July 13, 2025. He was received by top government officials, including the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, the National Security Adviser, and other senior aides.

President Tinubu departed Nigeria on June 28 for a state visit to Saint Lucia, where he joined the country’s leadership and citizens in celebrating their 45th Independence Anniversary. The visit was also aimed at strengthening ties under South-South cooperation, with both nations exploring partnerships in tourism, education, and trade.

Following his engagement in Saint Lucia, President Tinubu proceeded to Brazil, where he participated in the 17th BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro. The summit brought together leaders from major emerging economies, and Nigeria’s presence marked a significant step in its strategic positioning within the Global South.

During the summit, President Tinubu held bilateral talks with his Brazilian counterpart, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, focusing on economic cooperation, trade, infrastructure development, and cultural exchange between the two countries.

The president’s latest trip underscores his administration’s focus on repositioning Nigeria as a key player in global diplomacy and international cooperation. Since assuming office in May 2023, President Tinubu has made over 40 foreign visits, engaging leaders and global institutions to attract investments and foster bilateral relations.

As he settles back into domestic affairs, observers will be watching closely to see how the outcomes of these visits translate into tangible benefits for the Nigerian people.