LASUCAS 4th International Conference Opens in Salvador, Bahia, to Advance Nigeria-Brazil South-South Cooperation

The Lagos State University Centre for Afro-Brazilian Studies, LASUCAS, on Monday commenced its 4th International Conference in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, bringing together academics, policymakers, diplomats, traditional rulers, and cultural stakeholders from Nigeria and Brazil.  

The conference, themed “South-South Cooperation: Nigeria and Brazil’s Roles in Fostering Collaboration among Emerging Economies,” is focused on strengthening partnerships in economic growth, technological innovation, cultural exchange, and sustainable development.  

Organisers said discussions will also examine opportunities for enhanced South-South cooperation and global governance reforms, as both countries continue to deepen bilateral relations amid evolving global realities.  

The opening ceremony, held at the Conference Hall of the Universidade Federal da Bahia, UFBA, featured cultural displays, music performances, and traditional dances reflecting the rich historical and cultural connections between Nigeria and Brazil.  

Distinguished guests in attendance included the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akeem OWOADE, and Ayaba Abiwunmi OWOADE; the Ambassador of Portugal to Nigeria, Mr. Paulo SANTOS; and the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lagos State, Mr. Pedro LAWAL, who represented the Governor, Mr. Babajide SANWO-OLU.  

Also present were the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Bahia, UFBA, Prof. Miguez, and the Vice-Chancellor of the State University of Bahia, UNEB.  

The Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University, Distinguished Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola OLATUNJI-BELLO, mni, was represented by the University Orator, Prof. Henry HUNJO.  

The LASU delegation, led by the Director of LASUCAS, Prof. Tayo AJAYI, included Prof. Salami DADA of the Faculty of Management Sciences; Associate Prof. Sunday BAMISILE, Assistant Director, LASUCAS; Dr. Adetola OYE, former Head of the Department of Foreign Languages; and the Deputy Registrar, LASUCAS, Dr. (Mrs.) Victoria OPALEYE.  

Other participants included Prof. Adejumo of the University of Lagos, Mrs. Paula GOMES, long-time Cultural Attaché to the Alaafin of Oyo, as well as several Brazilian traditional religion practitioners and cultural leaders.  

The conference is expected to serve as a platform for scholarly engagement, policy dialogue, and cultural diplomacy, further strengthening Nigeria-Brazil historical and cultural ties and advancing South-South cooperation objectives.