By Lawal Sale
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Georgy Borisenko has received copies of the credentials from Nigeria’s newly appointed Ambassador to Russia, Joseph Sola Iji.
The Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed the development in a statement released through its embassy in Abuja.
According to the ministry, Borisenko formally received the ambassador during a ceremony in Moscow, where Iji presented copies of his diplomatic credentials.
The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to discuss pressing issues related to the enhancement of Russia-Nigeria relations.
Discussions between the two sides centred on intensifying political dialogue and deepening bilateral cooperation in key areas, including trade, the economy, science and technology, humanitarian affairs, and other sectors of mutual interest.
Ambassador Iji was appointed to the post in March by Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Russia and Nigeria have maintained diplomatic ties for 65 years, dating back to the Soviet era. Over the decades, the partnership has expanded to encompass a wide range of joint initiatives in energy, geology, education, science, agriculture, and culture.
The two countries have also collaborated extensively in human capital development, with tens of thousands of Nigerian professionals having received training in the Soviet Union and, subsequently, in modern-day Russia. (GSF)
