President BOLA TINUBU has told President LUIZ INÁCIO LULA DA SILVA of Brazil that Nigeria was ready to improve bilateral relations between both countries that have withered over the years.

The two leaders, while meeting on the sidelines of the 37th summit of the African Union, convening in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital, agreed that Africa’s largest economy and South America’s largest economy have a long and interesting history together.

President LULA, who is attending the summit as a special guest, lamented the declining volume of trade between both countries which he said has dropped from 10 billion dollars in the past, to 1.6 billion dollars now.

He identified other key areas of improvement including agriculture and industrialisation, wondering why there are no direct flights from Lagos to Sao Paulo.

In his response, President TINUBU emphasized that Nigeria was now ready to deepen ties with the South American nation.

He re-emphasized the strength of Nigeria’s economic potential and influence, saying the country is witnessing a leap forward, despite some short-term reform pains, as his administration is removing all hindrances to business.

He further explained that his administration is investing in critical sectors of the economy like healthcare, education, and agriculture to ensure the welfare of all Nigerian citizens and to create sustainable economic prosperity for future generations.

On having direct flights between both countries, President TINUBU promised to form a committee that would liaise with Brazil and work out a plan, noting the country cannot afford to repeat past mistakes.

The two leaders also agreed to work out the modalities for a state visit to Brazil by President TINUBU.