TheCable

The federal government says Russia is willing to offer admissions to Nigerians interested in continuing their studies.

Russia has also assured Nigeria that it will continue to provide the necessary assistance to ensure the safety and well-being of Nigerians in the Russian federation.

According to a statement from the Nigerian embassy in Moscow, Mikhail Bogdanov, deputy minister of foreign affairs of Russia, gave the assurance at a meeting with Abdullahi Shehu, Nigeria’s ambassador to the country.

“Bogdanov informed Shehu regarding logistics arrangements put in place by Russia to assist in the evacuation of Nigerian students that were stuck in Kherson, Ukraine,” the statement reads.

“He assured the ambassador that the Russian Government will provide necessary assistance to ensure the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens in the Russian Federation.

“During their conversation, the current situation in Ukraine was discussed, as well as a range of topical matters regarding the future development of the traditionally friendly Russia-Nigeria relations.

“Also were efforts to expand mutually beneficial cooperation in trade, economy, science, technology, culture, humanitarian sphere, and other fields.”

The embassy said Bogdanov further informed Shehu that Russia’s ministry of education would offer admissions to Nigerians willing to continue their education in the country.

The minister noted the “warm and beneficial” relationships between Nigeria and Russia, as well as its military and political support to Nigeria during the civil war.

“He further assured the Nigerian Envoy that Russia considers Nigeria as an important country and a strategic partner in Africa and will continue to strengthen our bilateral relationships,” the statement added.

Responding, Shehu expressed appreciation to the Russian government for its concern and assistance towards the plights of Nigerians.

The ambassador also requested the Russian authorities to provide necessary conducive environment for the welfare and well-being of Nigerians in Russia and strengthen Nigeria-Russian bilateral relations in all sectors.