The Russian Federation has proposed increasing its annual scholarship quota for Nigerian students beyond the current 220 slots.
This offer came during a meeting in Abuja between Russian Embassy officials and Nigeria’s Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy.
Nneka Anibeze, media adviser to Minister Hannatu Musawa, said the talks focused on cultural exchange, youth development, and economic cooperation.
“There is a great need to harness their [youth] potential through the creative and cultural industries,” Musawa stated. “We emphasise the use of culture and creativity to engage young people on global issues like youth employment and economic hardship, climate change, education, and mental health challenges.”
Russian Ambassador A.L. Podelyshev invited Nigeria to the Kazan Cultural Fair in November and proposed reviving a dormant cultural cooperation MoU. He also called for cultural exchanges and joint theatre programmes.
Podelyshev said Russia would help preserve Nigeria’s cultural heritage using digital tools.
Both sides agreed to designate contact persons and timelines, with Russia awaiting Nigeria’s formal cooperation proposals.