Russia Vows to Defend National Interests, Expands Engagement With Nigeria Amid Global Tensions

By Iyojo Ameh

Russia has declared that it will not bow to international pressure over the conflict in Ukraine, while pledging to deepen political, economic and strategic cooperation with Nigeria and the wider African continent.

Speaking at a reception marking Russia Day in Abuja, Russia’s Chargé d’Affaires ad interim in Nigeria, Vladimir Nestoyanov, said Moscow remained determined to protect its national interests and pursue an independent foreign policy despite sanctions and efforts to isolate the country on the global stage.

The envoy used the occasion to defend Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine, insisting that Moscow did not initiate the conflict and had repeatedly sought a diplomatic resolution before the outbreak of hostilities.

Nestoyanov argued that Russia’s actions were driven by security concerns and the need to protect the rights of Russian-speaking populations, while accusing Western nations of escalating tensions through their support for Kyiv.

“We have never refused negotiations, either before or after February 24, 2022,” he said, maintaining that Russia had consistently advocated a political settlement of the crisis.

The diplomat further asserted that attempts to weaken Russia through sanctions and diplomatic isolation had failed and would continue to fail, describing the country as a major global power with significant human, scientific, technological and natural resources.

According to him, the world is witnessing the emergence of a new multipolar order in which countries are increasingly seeking more balanced and equitable international relations.

He said Russia supports a global system based on sovereign equality, mutual respect, non-interference in internal affairs and adherence to international law under the United Nations Charter.

Nestoyanov noted that Africa’s growing political and economic influence has made the continent a key pillar of Russia’s foreign policy, adding that Moscow remains committed to strengthening partnerships with African countries on the basis of equality and mutual benefit.

He pointed to the outcomes of recent Russia-Africa summits as evidence of expanding cooperation in areas such as trade, energy, agriculture, healthcare, education, science and security.

The Russian envoy reserved special praise for Nigeria, describing it as one of Africa’s most influential nations and a critical partner in promoting peace, stability and development across the continent.

“Nigeria plays a vital role in addressing regional challenges, strengthening African institutions and advancing the interests of Africa on the international stage,” he said.

He noted that relations between Moscow and Abuja continue to grow through collaboration in education, energy, agriculture, healthcare and humanitarian exchanges.

Nestoyanov also highlighted the role of thousands of Nigerians who studied in Soviet and Russian institutions, describing them as an enduring bridge of friendship and understanding between both countries.

The envoy expressed appreciation to the Nigerian government, diplomatic community, business leaders, academics and media practitioners for their continued engagement with Russia.

He reaffirmed Moscow’s readiness to broaden cooperation with Nigeria and other African nations, saying both sides share common positions on several international issues, including support for a stronger role for the United Nations and the pursuit of a more balanced global order.

The reception formed part of activities commemorating Russia Day, observed annually on June 12 to mark the adoption of the Declaration of State Sovereignty of the Russian Federation in 1990. The celebration also highlights Russia’s national identity, statehood and foreign policy priorities.