Russia's top diplomat in Nigeria has laid out Moscow's foreign policy vision, emphasising a shift towards a multipolar world and identifying Nigeria as a pivotal strategic partner for regional stability. The remarks were made during a major diplomatic forum held in Lagos.
Ambassadorial Forum in Lagos Details Russia's Global Vision
Russia's Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podelyshev, addressed a gathering at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in Lagos on Wednesday, 3 December 2025. The event, titled “Russia’s Foreign Policy and its Priorities: Prospects for Multilateral Diplomacy,” provided a platform for Moscow to explain its strategic posture to Nigeria's foreign policy community.
The Director-General of the NIIA, Professor Eghosa Osaghae, stated the session was timely. He noted that Nigerian experts are keen to understand Russia's stance, especially against the backdrop of the Ukraine conflict and Moscow's growing engagements in Africa, including the Sahel region. "Nigeria wants to put this into perspective and say what exactly is going on and what Russia will do for us," Osaghae said.
Pillars of Multipolarity and Nigeria's Strategic Importance
Ambassador Podelyshev argued that the world is in an irreversible transition to a multipolar system, with multiple centres of power emerging across Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Africa. He stated that Russia does not seek domination but aims to be "one of the supporting pillars of balance" in international affairs, firmly defending its interests within international law.
He outlined Russia's commitment to several key international platforms:
- The United Nations: Described as the primary platform for global governance, with Russia opposing its replacement by narrow coalitions.
- BRICS: A key mechanism for fair global development, financial architecture reform, and promoting national currencies.
- Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO): A major Eurasian platform combining security and economic cooperation.
- G20: Praised as more reflective of global realities than the G7, especially after the African Union's admission as a permanent member in 2023, which Russia championed.
Podelyshev reserved significant praise for Africa's rising geopolitical role. "Africa is not a pawn in someone else’s game but a player in its own right," he declared, highlighting continental initiatives like Agenda 2063, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and African-led peace missions.
Nigeria: A Future Global Centre of Power
The ambassador specifically identified Nigeria as a potential anchor for regional stability and a crucial strategic partner for Russia. He cited Nigeria's demographic strength, economic potential, and diplomatic weight as factors that will make it a global centre of influence in the emerging world order.
"Nigeria has all the prerequisites to move beyond purely African missions and become one of the global centres of power," Podelyshev asserted. He added that Russia views Nigeria's rise as beneficial to global stability and aligned with its vision of a balanced international system.
The ambassador also recalled that the two nations celebrated 60 years of diplomatic relations in November 2025. He outlined expanding areas of bilateral cooperation, including:
- Military-technical support
- Education and nuclear research
- Upstream energy operations and infrastructure
- Digital technology and trade in grain and fertiliser
Podelyshev concluded by reaffirming Russia's support for Africa's push for permanent representation on the UN Security Council and reforms to global financial institutions, positioning Moscow as a partner for a more equitable world order.
