By Lawal Sale
On August 5 this year, the Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, A.L.Podelyshev, held an official meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Ambassador Yusuf M.Tuggar.
According to a statement from the Russian Embassy in Abuja, the parties discussed current issues of bilateral cooperation, including strengthening political dialogue, developing diplomatic relations, and cooperation in the cultural and humanitarian spheres.
Russia (as the successor to the USSR) and Nigeria established diplomatic ties in 1960, with the USSR opening its embassy in Lagos in 1961 and Nigeria reciprocating by opening it’s embassy in Moscow in 1962.
Key areas of cooperation between the two countries over the years include defense, education, and trade, with ongoing efforts to expand these partnerships.
Also, Russia is a leading member of BRICS and Russia-Africa Economic Forum where Nigeria is a partner nation and active member respectively.
–Sale is Global South Affairs Analyst
