Nigeria and Russia have reiterated their commitment to practical collaboration in trade, economic, and humanitarian sectors, aimed at benefiting the peoples of both countries. The pledge came in an exchange of congratulatory messages between their foreign ministers marking the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, and his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, expressed optimism about deepening cooperation across multiple areas.
In his statement, Tuggar said Nigeria remains dedicated to maintaining an active and substantive political dialogue with Russia. He congratulated the Russian government and people, noting that since diplomatic ties were established on November 25, 1960, the relationship has been built on mutual respect, constructive dialogue, and shared goals for global peace, stability, and development.
“Our cooperation has expanded across strategic sectors including Defence, Education, Energy, Science and Technology, Space, Trade, and Cultural Exchange. We look forward to further strengthening collaboration in the economy, security, and people-to-people exchanges,” Tuggar said.
Lavrov, for his part, expressed satisfaction with the current level of cooperation, describing it as rooted in mutual respect, trust, and alignment on regional and international issues.
He reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to sustaining political dialogue and practical collaboration in trade, economic, and humanitarian fields to support the prosperity of both nations and promote sustainable peace and development across Africa.
“I wish you good health and success, and to the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, well-being and prosperity,” Lavrov added.