By Joy Omagha Idam, Abuja
The Russian Federation has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Nigeria and deepening its strategic engagement with Africa as it celebrated Russia Day in Abuja on Thursday.
Speaking at a diplomatic reception marking the country’s national day, Russia’s Chargé d’Affaires ad interim, Vladimir Nestoyanov, described Russia Day as a celebration of the nation’s history, resilience, sovereignty, and aspirations for the future.
Addressing diplomats, government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, academics, media practitioners, and friends of Russia, Nestoyanov noted that the occasion commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of State Sovereignty of the Russian Federation on June 12, 1990, an event that laid the foundation for modern Russia.
According to him, the country is celebrating 36 years of modern statehood, a period he said has witnessed far-reaching political, economic, and social transformations.
“Russia Day is, above all, a celebration of our people, our history, and our future. It reminds us of the importance of preserving what unites us while remaining open to cooperation, dialogue, and new opportunities,” he said.
The Russian envoy reflected on the nation’s evolution over the past three decades, emphasizing that despite global challenges and geopolitical tensions, Russia has remained steadfast in pursuing its national interests and independent foreign policy.
Touching on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Nestoyanov reiterated Moscow’s position that the military operation is aimed at protecting Russian-speaking populations and safeguarding Russia’s security interests. He maintained that Russia had consistently sought diplomatic solutions and remains open to dialogue, while rejecting what he described as efforts by Western nations to isolate or weaken the country.
He expressed confidence that the changing dynamics of international relations are giving rise to a more balanced and multipolar global order, one founded on sovereign equality, mutual respect, cultural diversity, and adherence to international law.
“The process of building a more just and democratic multipolar world order is objective and irreversible,” he stated, adding that Russia remains committed to working with nations that support cooperation based on the principles of the United Nations Charter and non-interference in internal affairs.
Nestoyanov identified Africa as a key pillar of Russia’s foreign policy, describing the continent as an increasingly influential centre of economic growth, innovation, and political leadership. He said Moscow highly values its longstanding relationship with African nations and is committed to implementing decisions reached at successive Russia-Africa Summits.
He emphasized that Russia seeks partnerships rooted in equality, mutual respect, and shared development goals, noting that cooperation with African countries continues to expand across multiple sectors.
Among Russia’s partners on the continent, he singled out Nigeria as a nation of special importance.
Describing Nigeria as Africa’s most populous country and one of its leading economies, the diplomat commended its role in promoting peace, stability, and development across the continent. He also praised Nigeria’s contributions to strengthening regional institutions and advancing Africa’s interests on the global stage.
“The relationship between Russia and Nigeria is founded on mutual respect, trust, and a shared commitment to constructive cooperation,” he said.
According to him, bilateral relations between both countries continue to grow in areas such as education, science, agriculture, healthcare, energy, trade, security, and humanitarian exchanges.
The envoy paid special tribute to thousands of Nigerian graduates of Soviet and Russian universities, describing them as enduring ambassadors of friendship and cooperation between both nations.
He noted that their professional achievements and personal experiences have helped build lasting people-to-people connections and mutual understanding, forming a strong foundation for future engagement.
Nestoyanov also commended the constructive dialogue between Russia and Nigeria within international organizations, noting that both countries share similar positions on several global issues, including support for the central role of the United Nations and the pursuit of a more equitable international system.
As the celebration drew to a close, the Russian diplomat expressed appreciation to the Nigerian government, members of the diplomatic community, business leaders, scholars, journalists, and friends of Russia for their continued support and friendship.
He reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to further strengthen its partnership with Nigeria and Africa, expressing optimism that cooperation between both countries would continue to flourish in the years ahead.
The reception served not only as a celebration of Russia’s national day but also as a reflection of the growing diplomatic and economic ties between Moscow and Abuja, underscoring a shared commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and mutual development in an increasingly interconnected world.