The Russian Federation has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Nigeria and expanding cooperation with African countries in key sectors including education, energy, agriculture, healthcare, security, trade, and humanitarian exchanges.
Russia’s Chargé d’Affaires ad interim in Nigeria, Vladimir Nestoyanov, stated this during a reception held in Abuja to commemorate Russia Day, the national holiday of the Russian Federation.
Addressing diplomats, government officials, business leaders, academics, media practitioners and friends of Russia, Nestoyanov described Russia Day as a celebration of the country’s history, sovereignty, and development.
According to him, the occasion marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of State Sovereignty of the Russian Federation on June 12, 1990.
“This year, we celebrate the 36th anniversary of modern Russia, while the history of Russian statehood spans more than 1,200 years,” he said.
The Russian envoy noted that over the past three decades, Russia had undergone significant political, economic and social transformations which, in his view, strengthened the country’s development and national institutions.
Russia’s Position on Ukraine Conflict
Speaking on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Nestoyanov reiterated Russia’s position that its military operation was aimed at protecting what he described as its national security interests and the rights of Russian-speaking populations.
He maintained that Russia had consistently advocated for a political and diplomatic resolution of the crisis and remained open to negotiations.
The diplomat also criticized Western countries, alleging that they had contributed to the escalation of tensions and sought to weaken Russia through sanctions and political pressure.
Despite these challenges, he said Russia remained committed to pursuing its national interests and maintaining an independent foreign policy.
Nestoyanov further emphasized Russia’s support for what he described as an emerging multipolar world order based on sovereign equality, mutual respect, cultural diversity, and adherence to international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter.
Nigeria-Africa Relations Remain Strategic
Turning to Africa, the envoy highlighted the continent’s growing role in global economic growth, innovation, and political influence.
He said Africa occupies a special place in Russia’s foreign policy and expressed Moscow’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with African nations on the basis of equality and mutual respect.
“We highly value our longstanding ties with African countries and welcome the growing role of the continent in global affairs,” he stated.
The diplomat said Russia remained committed to implementing decisions reached at the Russia-Africa Summits and expanding collaboration for the mutual benefit of both sides.
On Nigeria, Nestoyanov described the country as one of Russia’s most important partners in Africa.
He commended Nigeria’s contributions to peace, stability and development on the continent and praised its role in strengthening African institutions and promoting regional cooperation.
According to him, relations between Russia and Nigeria continue to deepen through cooperation in education, science, energy, agriculture, healthcare, security and trade.
He also acknowledged the contributions of thousands of Nigerian graduates of Soviet and Russian universities, describing them as a bridge of friendship and understanding between the two countries.
Nestoyanov further praised the existing diplomatic engagement between Moscow and Abuja, noting that both countries shared similar positions on several international issues, including support for the United Nations and calls for a more equitable global order.
The Russian envoy expressed appreciation to the Government of Nigeria, members of the diplomatic community, business leaders, academics, journalists and other guests for attending the celebration.
He reaffirmed Russia’s desire to further strengthen ties with Nigeria and expressed optimism about the future of bilateral relations.
“Russia Day is, above all, a celebration of our people, our history and our future. We highly value the friendship between Russia and Nigeria and look forward to further developing our partnership in the years ahead,” he said.
