Tinubu seeks Russian help as Ajaokuta still dormant

DDM News

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has underscored the importance of strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic ties with the Russian Federation.

The call came on Thursday, May 15, 2025, during a high-level meeting with the Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Leonidovich Podelyshev, held at the Presidential Villa in Aso Rock, Abuja, according to a report monitored by Diaspora Digital Media (DDM).

The meeting, which focused on bilateral cooperation, is seen as a strategic move by the Tinubu administration to expand Nigeria’s global partnerships, particularly in technology, energy, and industrial development.

In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu emphasized the need for more impactful collaboration between both nations.

He specifically pointed to sectors such as steel production, education, and nuclear energy as areas where Russia’s technological capacity could greatly benefit Nigeria.

“Our partnership has been fulfilling, but we need more technological support with our rapidly growing population,” Tinubu said.

He noted that Nigeria’s development goals require advanced infrastructure and modern technology, especially in critical sectors like energy and manufacturing.

Tinubu referenced the Ajaokuta Steel Complex, a massive industrial project originally built by Russian firms in the late 1970s.

He stated that the complex would only realize its full potential when made fully operational, adding that it could serve as a cornerstone for Nigeria’s industrial revival.

“The Ajaokuta Steel Complex, constructed by Russian companies, will only realise its potential when fully operational,” he stressed.

The Ajaokuta project, which began over four decades ago, has remained largely dormant due to a combination of policy failures, underfunding, and shifting political priorities.

Successive Nigerian administrations have pledged to resuscitate the plant, recognizing its role in economic diversification and job creation.

Tinubu’s latest remarks indicate a renewed commitment to turning the long-idle facility into a functioning industrial powerhouse.

He also highlighted the importance of Russian collaboration in the areas of nuclear energy and education, noting that such partnerships could help address Nigeria’s chronic electricity shortages and human capital challenges.

The Russian Ambassador, Andrey Leonidovich Podelyshev, expressed his country’s willingness to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations with Nigeria.

He reiterated Russia’s interest in supporting Nigeria’s industrial growth and technological advancement.

As Nigeria seeks to position itself as a regional industrial leader, Tinubu’s administration appears focused on forging mutually beneficial global alliances.

By renewing ties with Russia, Nigeria may be opening a new chapter in its pursuit of industrial self-sufficiency and energy security.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook