The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to building a stronger and more mutually beneficial relationship with the Russian Government.

The Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, received the Trade Commissioner of the Russian Federation, Maxim Petrov, and his delegation in Abuja on a working visit

The delegation was on a working visit aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation, expanding technical partnerships, and unlocking new opportunities in education, trade, and investment.

The Minister underscored the Ministry’s central role in driving cooperation agreements and facilitating technical partnerships that will shape future engagements between both countries.

She noted that Nigeria remains open and ready to support innovative approaches that deepen collaboration, particularly, Russia’s evolving strategy of engaging directly with regional governments to deliver development outcomes at the grassroots level. Dr Uzoka-Anite emphasised that while Nigeria values the progress made so far, there is significant room to expand cooperation into new and impactful areas.

The Minister acknowledged Russia’s advancement in technology and capacity development, highlighting the importance of leveraging existing agreements to scale up collaboration in key sectors, including education and human capital development.

The Trade Commissioner of the Russian Federation, Maxim Petrov, commended the Minister of State for her dedication and proactive leadership, noting Russia’s readiness to deepen engagement with Nigeria across multiple sectors.

He highlighted a new approach to educational exchange being driven by the Russian government, which now empowers Nigeria’s regional governments with direct access to fully funded scholarship opportunities tailored to their development needs.

According to him, the initiative provides free higher education opportunities in Russia, covering tuition and accommodation, while Nigerian counterparts are only required to handle travel and basic allowances.

He added that the programme currently accommodates about 200 Nigerian students, with plans to expand further across critical sectors such as industry, hospitality, and medical sciences.

Petrov emphasised that Russia’s engagement is guided by a genuine partnership philosophy, focused on aligning with Nigeria’s priorities and development agenda.

The meeting reaffirmed both countries’ shared commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, expanding economic cooperation, and fostering sustainable development through strategic partnerships in education, trade, and technology.