Abuja, Nigeria — The Russian Federation has unveiled plans to strengthen its educational partnership with Nigeria through increased scholarship opportunities and broader academic collaboration.
The announcement was made by the Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb. Andrey Podelyshev, during a press briefing held Monday evening in Abuja.
Speaking on Russia’s long-term vision, Amb. Podelyshev revealed that President Vladimir Putin aims to significantly increase the number of international students in Russian universities to 500,000, noting that the current figure is less than half that target.
“As of now, approximately 32,000 African students are enrolled in Russian institutions, with only about 2,000 from Nigeria,” he disclosed. “To meet this objective, Russia will expand its annual scholarship quota, with 220 scholarships already approved for Nigerian students in the 2025 academic year.”
The envoy also announced the introduction of a special grant system to support transportation, accommodation, and living expenses—following recent changes in Nigerian scholarship policies.
Beyond financial aid, Amb. Podelyshev underscored education as a strategic tool for bilateral cooperation, particularly in sectors such as nuclear energy, metallurgy, and industrial development.
“For instance, if Russia is to partner in rebuilding the Ajaokuta steel plant or constructing nuclear facilities, it will require Nigerian professionals trained in Russian institutions,” he said.
He emphasized that project-based training, aligned with national development priorities, could reduce brain drain by motivating students to return and contribute to Nigeria’s growth.
Podelyshev reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to cultural and academic exchange, noting support for centres like the Centre of Open Education at the University of Lagos, while exploring new partnerships with universities in Abuja and beyond.
He called for renewed collaboration with Nigerian institutions, referencing a previously proposed Russian language centre at Katsina State University that did not materialize, and encouraged efforts to revive such initiatives.
The statement concluded with a pledge by Russia to advance shared educational goals through sustained bilateral engagement and capacity development.
By Adeola Olaniya | June 9, 2025
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