The Federal Ministry of Education has restated Nigeria’s commitment to its long-standing educational and cultural partnership with the Russian Federation, even as economic realities impact the sponsorship of students abroad.
During a meeting in Abuja, Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa met with the Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Nikolay N. Udovichenko, to review existing ties and explore new opportunities.
Dr. Alausa praised Russia’s decades-long role in training Nigerians in medicine, engineering, and technology. According to him, “Over 2,186 Nigerians are currently studying in Russia, mostly in healthcare-related fields.”
However, the Federal Government has suspended its financial contributions to bilateral scholarship schemes, including those with Russia. This means that future Nigerian students will need full sponsorship from the Russian government, state governments, or private organisations.
Ambassador Udovichenko revealed that Nigeria was offered 250 scholarships for the 2024–25 academic session, with 199 students already enrolled. He said, “We are ready to increase the quota if there are firm financial guarantees,” noting that Niger and Abia States have already committed to supporting students. He called for more state-level involvement to expand the benefits.
Both countries agreed to strengthen cooperation by appointing a liaison office, renewing cultural exchange agreements, introducing Russian language studies in Nigerian schools, and linking Nigerian universities to the Russian–African University Network.
This renewed partnership highlights the importance of international education, cultural diplomacy, and skills development for Nigerian students, especially in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, engineering, and technology.