Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to strengthening relations between Nigeria and the Russian Federation as part of efforts to explore new opportunities in energy and technology. The Governor, represented by his Deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, made this known during a courtesy visit by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to Nigeria, H.E. Mr. Andrey L. Podelyshev, at the Deputy Governor’s Official Residence in Ikoyi, Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu stated that Nigeria and Russia have enjoyed decades of diplomatic and development partnerships, noting that Lagos holds an important place in the country’s economic, cultural, and historical sectors. He acknowledged that the bilateral relationship had slowed in recent years due to various circumstances but said both countries’ foreign affairs ministries are working to revive and reinforce these ties.
The Governor stressed that Lagos, as Nigeria’s former federal capital and current economic hub contributing about 30 per cent of the nation’s GDP, remains a strategic gateway for investment and international cooperation. He expressed optimism that Lagos State would collaborate in several sectors proposed by the Russian Government, adding that the state is open to productive negotiations and meaningful partnerships.
Sanwo-Olu pointed out the state’s interest in different technological and energy solutions presented by the Russian delegation, which included digital innovations, solar technologies, and particularly the floating nuclear power plant model capable of generating 100 to 200 MW with a lifespan of up to 60 years. He explained that solutions like floating systems could benefit Lagos, where 30 per cent of the land area is water and space limitations demand innovative energy approaches such as floating solar installations.
The Governor said the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperative, Trade, and Industry is already holding direct engagements with Russian officials, including ongoing discussions involving the Lekki Free Trade Zone.
Earlier, Ambassador Podelyshev stated that Russia is eager to build a strong economic relationship with Lagos and sees closer cooperation as essential for development. He noted that Moscow serves not only as Russia’s political centre but also its financial and industrial hub, highlighting shared challenges with Lagos in urban infrastructure, transport systems, utilities, and social services.
He said, “In this regard, we must consider it reasonable to explore bilateral ties along the Russia-Lagos or St. Petersburg–Lagos lines, including the establishment of partner-city or sister-city cooperation.” Podelyshev identified Artificial Intelligence, Education, Economy, Infrastructure, and Power as key areas for collaboration, stressing that the partnership would boost development in both countries.
