Countries Aligning with BRICS, Nigeria Included, Risk 10% Tariff From the U.S.

United States President Donald Trump’s threat to impose an additional 10% tariff on countries aligning with BRICS poses a significant economic challenge for Nigeria.

Since becoming a BRICS partner country in January 2025, Nigeria has sought to deepen ties with the bloc. This way, it could diversify its economy, attract investment, and enhance trade opportunities beyond traditional Western partners.

Trump’s tariff threat risks increasing the cost of Nigerian exports to the US. This could significantly affect key sectors such as oil and gas, which constitute over 90% of Nigeria’s exports.

Where Nigeria Stands and What Happens to its Economy

The Nigerian government has already expressed concerns that US tariffs disrupt trade relations. More so, they reduce the competitiveness of Nigerian products in the US market, potentially harming both oil and non-oil export businesses.

This additional tariff burden could slow Nigeria’s economic growth just as it aims to leverage BRICS membership through partnerships with member countries. It hopes to boost infrastructure funding, industrial development, and economic diversification with China, India and Brazil.

Its inclusion in BRICS offers opportunities. One of such is the access to alternative financing via the New Development Bank, technology transfer, and expanded trade corridors, which are critical for job creation and reducing reliance on oil revenues.

However, Trump’s tariffs complicate these prospects by potentially limiting Nigeria’s access to the US market, increasing export costs, and exacerbating economic pressures.

This tension highlights the geopolitical challenges Nigeria faces as it balances its growing role in emerging global alliances like BRICS against traditional economic relationships with Western powers.