Niger State Government has signed a landmark agreement with Russia’s biggest financial institution, Sberbank, focusing on key sectors including agriculture, healthcare, digital education, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
The deal was finalized during the 28th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum in Russia. Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago signed on behalf of the Niger State Government, while Timur Kozintsev, Senior Vice President of Sberbank, represented the financial institution.
According to the agreement, both parties will work together to develop joint projects in agriculture, healthcare, mining, cybersecurity, and digital education. The collaboration includes plans to create roadmaps, form working groups, and launch pilot projects that may be expanded across the state.
Governor Bago said during the event, “With this partnership with Sberbank, the State plans to implement a number of projects aimed at increasing the effectiveness of agriculture, enhancing the quality of life, and creating new points of economic growth.”
Kozintsev highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “This cooperation with Niger State will open up access for the State to Sberbank’s expertise and products. It will help address key challenges in the region, improve the quality of life, and boost businesses.”
The agreement also emphasizes the digital transformation of the state’s economy. With Sberbank’s global reputation in financial innovation and technology, Niger State is expected to benefit from a stronger digital economy and increased foreign investment.
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Sberbank, known for its global reach and financial strength, brings valuable experience that can help modernize Niger State’s economy, particularly in high-growth sectors like smart agriculture and tech-based education.