Lagos Reaffirms Push for Stronger Nigeria–Russia Partnership, Eyes Energy and Tech Opportunities

Lagos State has restated its determination to strengthen Nigeria’s long-standing relationship with Russia, with the government signaling readiness to explore new areas of cooperation across energy, technology, and infrastructure.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, made the commitment during a courtesy visit by Russia’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podelyshev, at the Deputy Governor’s residence in Ikoyi. Sanwo-Olu noted that although diplomatic momentum between both countries had slowed in recent years, ongoing efforts by the foreign ministries were helping to revive bilateral engagement.

He highlighted Lagos’ strategic importance responsible for nearly 30 percent of Nigeria’s GDP and serving as the country’s economic gateway, making it a natural partner for international collaboration and investment.

Sanwo-Olu expressed particular interest in Russia’s proposed technological and energy solutions, including digital innovations, solar technologies, and the floating nuclear power plant concept capable of delivering 100–200 MW of power for up to six decades. He noted that such models could be beneficial for Lagos, where waterlogged terrain and limited land space make unconventional energy infrastructure especially valuable.

The Governor also confirmed that the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperative, Trade, and Industry is already in direct discussions with Russian officials, with engagements linked to zones such as the Lekki Free Trade Zone.

Ambassador Podelyshev, in his remarks, said Russia is eager to build a strong economic relationship with Lagos, adding that both Moscow and Lagos face similar urban challenges in transport, utilities, and infrastructure. He advocated for deeper city-level cooperation, potentially through Lagos–Moscow or Lagos–St. Petersburg partnerships.

He identified priority sectors for collaboration, ranging from artificial intelligence and education to energy and industrial developmentz arguing that closer ties would deliver mutual economic benefits.

The meeting marks another step in Lagos’ ongoing effort to broaden international partnerships as part of its development agenda.