Lagos Affirms Commitment To Deepening Nigeria - Russia Bilateral Relations

Lagos State, Nigeria's economic powerhouse, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its bilateral relationship with the Russian Federation, signaling a new era of cooperation focusing on energy and technological solutions. Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, made the assertion during a courtesy visit by the Russian Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Nigeria, H.E. Mr. Andrey L. Podelyshev, at the Deputy Governor’s Official Residence in Ikoyi. The Governor highlighted Lagos' strategic importance as the former federal capital and current economic hub, contributing approximately 30 per cent to the nation's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), positioning it as a critical gateway for international investment and partnership.

A core focus of the proposed bilateral cooperation centres on technological and energy innovations, areas where Lagos is eager to explore Russian expertise. The Governor expressed particular interest in cutting-edge solutions presented by the Russian delegation, including digital innovations, solar power technologies, and significantly, the floating nuclear power plant model. This mobile power solution, boasting a capacity of 100–200 MW and a 60-year lifespan, presents a uniquely beneficial alternative for Lagos, given that 30 per cent of its landmass is water and space constraints necessitate innovative, floating installations.

​Ambassador Podelyshev reciprocated the enthusiasm, stating Russia's readiness to establish a strong economic relationship with Lagos. He drew parallels between the challenges faced by both Moscow and Lagos in urban infrastructure, transport, and utilities, suggesting that collaboration along the Russia-Lagos or St. Petersburg–Lagos lines, including the establishment of sister-city cooperation, would be mutually beneficial. The Ambassador further outlined key areas for potential bilateral relationship, encompassing Artificial Intelligence, Education, Economy, Infrastructure, and Power.

​The partnership is already moving from rhetoric to action, as confirmed by Governor Sanwo-Olu. The Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperative, Trade, and Industry is currently engaging directly with its Russian counterparts, with ongoing discussions related to the Lekki Free Trade Zone. This proactive engagement reflects the Lagos State Government's confidence in forming productive partnerships and its openness to serious negotiations, ultimately aiming to leverage international cooperation for economic growth, infrastructural development, and technological advancement in the state.

The partnership is already moving from rhetoric to action, as confirmed by Governor Sanwo-Olu. The Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperative, Trade, and Industry is currently engaging directly with its Russian counterparts, with ongoing discussions related to the Lekki Free Trade Zone. This proactive engagement reflects the Lagos State Government's confidence in forming productive partnerships and its openness to serious negotiations, ultimately aiming to leverage international cooperation for economic growth, infrastructural development, and technological advancement in the state