The Russian Federation has expressed readiness to expand its annual scholarship slots for Nigerian students beyond the current 220, as part of broader efforts to strengthen cultural and educational ties with Nigeria.
By Chimezie Godfrey
The Russian Federation has expressed readiness to expand its annual scholarship slots for Nigerian students beyond the current 220, as part of broader efforts to strengthen cultural and educational ties with Nigeria.
This was disclosed on Thursday during a courtesy visit by Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency A.L. Podelyshev, to the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, in Abuja.
Speaking during the meeting, Ambassador Podelyshev said discussions were underway to collaborate with Nigeria’s Ministry of Education on the scholarship initiative, while also extending invitations to Nigeria for participation in the upcoming Kazan Cultural Fair slated for November 2025.
The visit also explored new areas of cultural exchange, youth empowerment, and economic collaboration through the creative industries.
Highlighting the importance of Nigeria’s youthful population, Musawa said the government was committed to engaging young people through art, culture, and creativity to tackle pressing global challenges.
“Nigeria has a large youth population, with 70% under the age of 30. There is great need to harness their potential through the creative and cultural industries,” Musawa said.
“We emphasize the use of culture and creativity to engage young people on global issues like youth employment, economic hardship, climate change, education and mental health challenges.”
Ambassador Podelyshev also proposed the revival of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cultural cooperation that has remained dormant for two years. He expressed Russia’s willingness to support Nigeria in preserving its cultural heritage using advanced technologies such as 3D scanning and virtual reality.
“The Russian Institute of Theatre Arts seeks collaboration with Nigeria for joint theatre programs and training,” the envoy said. “We are also keen on digital cooperation to preserve Nigeria’s heritage.”
Both sides agreed on the need for a structured follow-up process, including the designation of focal persons and clear timelines. Nigeria also proposed the inclusion of creative economy initiatives and audiovisual co-productions in future bilateral agreements.
The Russian delegation reiterated its willingness to receive concrete proposals from Nigeria, while affirming mutual interest in actualizing cultural, creative, and tourism-linked projects under a reactivated MoU framework.