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Nigeria Outlines Strategies to Boost Economic Ties with Russia

Published

7 years ago

17/02/2019

By Kester Kenn Klomegah

Nigeria is an economic powerhouse in West African region. As it is publicly known, Nigeria is one of the Africa’s fastest growing economies and it boosts the largest population.

Under President Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria has taken practical steps to continue bolstering economic and strategic ties with Russia.

Interestingly, Russia and Nigeria’s two-way trade remains minimal, far below expected level, given the fact that Russia is the biggest market in the Eurasian region and Nigeria the biggest market in Africa.

Relations between Nigeria and Russia can be traced back to the former Union of the Soviet of Social Republics era when diplomatic relations between the two countries were established. Since then, economic relations between both countries have steadily developed with a number of leading Russian companies establishing their presence in Nigeria. Russian investment in Nigeria covers such areas as energy, iron and steel, and hydrocarbon.

The Russian-Nigerian Business Council was also established to oversee economic activities between the two countries. It is also a platform for the two countries to sit down and draw up agreements and Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on how to conduct effective businesses and investment in both countries.

Now, new hopes in Moscow and Abuja are that the countries’ annual commercial ties have to be increased rapidly to billions of dollars during the next few years. Russia plans to help Nigeria explore for oil and gas.

Furthermore, Russia has expressed deep interest in Nigeria, highly pledging to build nuclear power plants, petroleum pipelines, railways and infrastructure.

Kester Kenn Klomegah recently interviewed Professor Steve Ugbah, Nigerian Ambassador to the Russian Federation, who discussed the current Nigeria and Russia economic cooperation, ways to improve trade and other key foreign policy priorities.

In addition, Professor Ugbah shares hopes and optimism for the future relations between the two countries.

How do you see the economic relations developing currently between Russia and Nigeria?

The economic relations between Nigeria and Russia are not consistent with the long-standing cordial relations between both countries. This may be attributed to the apparent inadequate knowledge of the many investment opportunities in both countries. Nigeria is a vast market with huge potentials for prospective foreign investors and so is Russia. Regrettably, investors from both sides appear to know little or nothing about these opportunities.

However, in recent times, efforts have been made to improve the economic relations between both countries through rigorous sensitization interfaces and negotiations by the embassies of both countries. Since, my resumption of office as Nigerian Ambassador to the Russian Federation, I have held talks with several Russian companies who have demonstrated keen interest to invest in Nigeria, as well as resuscitating several abandoned economic projects.

I would like to add that, with our current sensitization drive on the economic potentials in both countries, there is an encouraging upsurge of interest that we have observed recently with an increasing number of interactions between private businesses in both countries. So given this development, I believe in a short time there will be tremendous improvement in the economic relations between both countries.

By the way, what are the Federal Government’s key priorities and expectations from the Russian Federation?

The priorities of the Federal Government of Nigeria from the Russian Government include the following: to promote mutually beneficial interests, particularly the promotion of friendly and cordial relations between the government and people of Nigeria and those of the Russian Federation; as well as to facilitate good socio-economic partnership and establish business ties that will be beneficial to both countries.

In addition, also a key component of Nigeria’s interest is to protect and promote the security and wellbeing of Nigerian citizens resident in the Russian Federation.

These priorities are pursued majorly through interactions at official levels between both governments and between the peoples of the two countries; exchange of official visits and cultural programmes and the signing of series of agreements including the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) which has brought many Nigerian students to various institutions in the Russian Federation.

What is the state of development regarding infrastructure projects already began by Russia, at least, a decade ago, in Nigeria?

There are two major infrastructural Russian projects in Nigeria: ALSCON and Ajaokuta Steel Plant. ALSCON has been resuscitated, while negotiations are ongoing to operationalize Ajaokuta Steel Plant.

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations with Soviet Union and now with Russia, trade figures have never balanced. What are your views about this trend and in what ways the trade imbalance could be reversed?

As I have stated earlier, the problem of low volume of trade and trade imbalance may be traced to the apparent poor or inadequate information on the vast investment opportunities in both countries. Concrete efforts have been made by the Embassy to increase awareness among Nigerian investors and their Russian counterparts on the many available investment opportunities.

I have held series of meetings with the Russian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Russia-Nigerian Business Council and several companies and private owned business establishments here in the Russian Federation to promote economic partnership between both countries.

My duties as Nigerian Ambassador in the Russian Federation include: to deepen the existing cordial relations between our two friendly countries; to open Nigeria to Russian investors with regards to our vast business opportunities; and to expose investment openings in the Russian Federation to Nigerian investors.

In order to improve the trade imbalance, the Economic, Trade and Investment Section of the Embassy has been rigorously involved in educating and informing Nigerian investors of the investment opportunities in Russia, as well as providing necessary assistance they may require to invest in Russia.

In Nigeria, how do political elite and business people perceive the economic changes, and what they make out from the changes, emerging opportunities in Russia?

Economic changes are keenly observed by both, the political elite and business people, as it helps them to make informed decisions that would improve the state of the nation and business, respectively. Nigeria views Russia as a strategic partner therefore, efforts are being made to harness emerging opportunities in Russia by Nigeria.

Could you please give us your interpretation of future perspectives of the relations between Russia and Nigeria. How would you like to see the relations develop into the future?

Nigeria-Russia relations have come a long way since diplomatic ties were established between both countries, dating back to the Soviet Union Era. This can be seen in the different levels of cooperation between Nigeria and Russia. Worthy of mention in this regard is the diligent implementation of the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA); Russia military assistance to end the Nigerian Civil War from 1967-1970; and, in recent times, military and technical assistance to help end the Boko Haram insurgency in the North East of Nigeria.

Recently, exchange of visits by senior public officials and private sector players from both sides have facilitated the prospects for even greater bilateral cooperation. I am hopeful that this cordiality will expand into various partnerships in different sectors that would be beneficial to both countries. Russia, as the successor state to the defunct USSR, is a strategic partner, with a lot of promise for greater mutually beneficial relations into the future.

General

Unlocking Profitability: The Benefits of Hiring a Property Management Company in West Palm Beach

Published

6 hours ago

06/12/2025

Dipo Olowookere

West Palm Beach’s vibrant real estate market beckons both seasoned and novice investors looking to reap substantial returns. However, property ownership comes with its fair share of challenges, including day-to-day maintenance, tenant relations, and the nuances of legal compliance. This is where the expertise of a property management company becomes invaluable. An efficient property manager can alleviate these burdens, permitting owners to enjoy their investments’ benefits with fewer headaches. Keep reading to discover how property management in West Palm Beach can enhance your real estate experience and profitability.

Unlocking Profitability: The Role of Property Management Companies in West Palm Beach

Property managers play a huge role in keeping rental properties profitable, especially in a competitive market like West Palm Beach. They handle the day-to-day work that often drains an owner’s time, from setting the right rental rates to advertising vacancies. Thanks to their knowledge of local trends, West Palm Beach Property Management teams help attract reliable tenants and keep units occupied.

They also serve as the bridge between owners and renters, managing everything from screenings and inspections to repairs and conflict resolution. By keeping properties well-maintained and responding quickly to tenant needs, they boost satisfaction and encourage long-term leases, ultimately protecting property value and strengthening steady cash flow for owners.

Enhancing Real Estate Value through Professional Property Management

Professional property management plays a key role in increasing long-term property value. These teams guide strategic upgrades and renovations that boost appeal and competitiveness in the West Palm Beach market. Consistent maintenance schedules protect essential features, prevent costly repairs, and support stronger property assessments. Skilled managers also anticipate market trends, directing improvements that align with evolving tenant expectations and help properties attract higher rents and responsible occupants.

By coordinating directly with contractors and service providers, they ensure all work meets professional standards while securing competitive pricing through established vendor relationships, giving property owners both savings and confidence in the care of their investment.

Streamlining Operations: How Property Management Saves You Time and Money

Property management services save investors valuable time by handling daily rental operations such as tenant acquisition, maintenance, and administrative tasks. Their expertise creates a streamlined system that frees owners to focus on growth or other pursuits. These firms also help reduce long-term costs through market knowledge, supplier discounts, and preventive maintenance that avoids expensive repairs.

They support strong financial performance with organized tracking of income, expenses, and profitability, making accounting and tax preparation easier. Their skill in budgeting and forecasting helps protect returns and keep investments on track, giving owners more flexibility while maintaining strong rental performance.

Attracting and Retaining Tenants with Expert Property Management Services

Property management companies play a vital role in attracting and keeping reliable tenants by using strong marketing tactics and thorough screening. Their tenant retention efforts, consistent communication, quick responses, and a respectful environment help reduce turnover and encourage long-term leases. Tenants feel more secure knowing they have a dependable point of contact for issues, which boosts satisfaction and stability.

Skilled managers also handle lease renewals and negotiations to maintain favorable terms. With deep awareness of tenant preferences and local market trends, they guide owners in adding desirable amenities that elevate a property’s appeal within West Palm Beach’s competitive rental market.

Navigating West Palm Beach’s Real Estate Legal Landscape with a Property Management Partner

Navigating property law and evolving regulations can be challenging for property owners, making legal compliance a complex task. Property management companies provide expertise in staying current with local, state, and federal laws, helping landlords avoid costly mistakes. They serve as advocates during tenant disputes or legal conflicts, managing issues professionally and, if needed, representing owners in court or negotiations.

These companies also draft and enforce comprehensive lease agreements, minimizing misunderstandings and fostering smooth landlord-tenant relationships. By implementing fair policies and rigorous safety measures, property managers reduce the risk of discrimination claims, safety violations, and other legal repercussions, ensuring both tenant protection and the long-term success of the property.

Altogether, engaging the services of a professional property management company in West Palm Beach is a shrewd investment in real estate success. Property owners benefit from the expertise that not only safeguards but also magnifies the potential of their assets, allowing them to enjoy the fruits of investment with minimal hassle.

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Pastor Ogbueli’s Abuja Night of Glory Holds Today

Published

1 day ago

05/12/2025

Business Post Contributor

By Blaise Udunze

Momentum is gathering for the Abuja Night of Glory taking place today, Friday, December 5, 2025, at the main bowl of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.

The crusade is being hosted by Dominion City Church headed by Pastor David Ogbueli and it starts by 7pm.

The all-night programme will feature dynamic worship leaders like Nathanial Bassey, Dunsin Oyekan, Theophilus Sunday, Chioma Jesus, Kaestrings, Sunmisola Agbebi Okeleye, Minister GUC, Ebuka Songs, Anthony Kani, and DC Angels.

Reputed as a teacher of righteousness and anointed minister of the gospel, evidenced by the miracles that have trailed his ministry, and one who champions the cause of the poor through empowerment initiatives, Dr. David Ogbueli will be joined by renowned ministers from within and outside Nigeria, including Evangelist Andres Bisonni, Dr. Charles Ndifon, Evangelist Dan Scott, Apostle Ikechukwu Nnajiofor, and several others.

Night of Glory has, in previous editions held across Nigeria’s cities, recorded remarkable results, such as immediate healings and freedom from chronic ailments, recovery of vision and movement after many years of paralysis, along with liberation from dependencies and emotional distress. Numerous participants have also shared testimonies of breakthroughs and big personal changes after the experience. Organisers state that this year’s event, in Abuja, is anticipated to exceed previous editions.

The event is intended for all individuals trusting God for divine intervention in any area of life.

Understanding the role of faith in the destiny of individuals and nations, a dedicated prayer session for Nigeria will take place during the crusade to tackle some of the current challenges being faced in the country and also to uplift he leaders and institutions before God.

Attendance is free, and registration is encouraged via the QR codes on event banners. Organisers expect a massive turnout as worshippers travel from across the country for what is anticipated to be a transformative encounter.

Adequate security and free transportation have been put in place ALL over the city of Abuja, while those outside Abuja are expected to join online.

General

Rivers Speaker, 15 Other Lawmakers Leave PDP for APC

Published

1 day ago

05/12/2025

Modupe Gbadeyanka

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

The Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Mr Martin Amaewhule, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

At the plenary on Friday, Mr Amaewhule joined the ruling party from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), along with 15 other members of the state parliament.

This development comes some months after they had earlier declared their support for the APC in the wake of a crisis with the state governor, Mr Sim Fubura.

The lawmakers had an issue with Mr Fubura, which led to a state of emergency declared on the oil-rich state by President Bola Tinubu in March 2025.

This embargo was only lift in September 2025 after the duration of the six-month emergency rule in the state.

A few days ago, members of the Rivers Assembly passed a vote of confidence on President Tinubu, backing him to remain in office till 2031, when he would have spent eight years in office if re-elected in 2027.

Announcing their defection today, the lawmakers pinned their decision on the crisis rocking the PDP at the national level.

It is not certain if their political godfather, Mr Nyesom Wike, who is the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), will join them in APC.

Mr Wike, who governed Rivers State from 2015 to 2023, has been accused of instigating the crisis in the opposition PDP. He was expelled from the party last month at a national convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State.