Russia has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening economic cooperation with Nigeria across key sectors as both nations marked the 65th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.
Speaking at a commemorative event in Abuja on Tuesday night, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to Nigeria, Andrey Pudelyshev, said the current trade volume—still below $1 billion—falls short of the countries’ real potential.
“We have before us a serious and inspiring task to expand practical cooperation in energy, agriculture, transport, extractive industries, the digital economy and higher technologies,” Pudelyshev said.
Describing the anniversary as “a moment when history turned a page,” the envoy highlighted Moscow’s longstanding support for Nigeria since the Soviet era, especially during periods of internal security challenges. He said Russia has always related with Nigeria as “a respectful partner,” offering support without imposition.
The ambassador stressed that decades of collaboration have produced several agreements in energy, geology, education, science, agriculture and culture. He called for the revival of the Intergovernmental Joint Commission on Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation to fast-track bilateral projects.
Pudelyshev also pointed to growing opportunities for partnerships among universities, regional governments, businesses, parliaments and political institutions. On security, he reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to support Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts and welcomed the country’s increased engagement through its partner status in BRICS.
“Next week, the BRICS Plus International Conference on National and Regional Strategies to Combat Terrorism will open in Moscow. We hope to see a Nigerian delegation, as Nigeria plays a leading role in ensuring stability in West Africa,” he added.
He further commended Nigeria’s “balanced position” at the UN, AU and ECOWAS, and reiterated Russia’s support for reforms that would grant Africa—especially Nigeria—greater representation on the UN Security Council.
Responding, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Dunoma Ahmed, said the Nigeria–Russia relationship has endured because it is anchored on sincerity, sovereignty and mutual respect. He acknowledged Russia’s early contributions to Nigeria’s development through scholarships, technical training and sectoral assistance.
“In 65 years, our bilateral relations have matured and diversified. Both countries have maintained a steady tradition of high-level dialogue on global and regional issues,” Ahmed said.
He noted that cooperation continues to strengthen in energy, mining, agriculture, transportation and manufacturing, combining Nigeria’s economic potential with Russia’s advanced technology.
“The prospects for deeper economic integration are significant. We look forward to accelerating negotiations and implementing joint projects that will deliver tangible benefits to citizens of both countries,” he added.
