Nigeria and Russia on Tuesday commemorated the 65th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, marking more than six decades of cooperation since relations were formally established on November 25, 1960.
To celebrate the milestone, the foreign ministers of both countries exchanged congratulatory messages reaffirming their commitment to deepening bilateral engagement.
In his message, Russia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Sergey Lavrov, extended warm felicitations, noting the “high level of cooperation” between the two nations, built on mutual respect, trust, and shared positions on key regional and global issues.
Lavrov stated: “We remain committed to the steady development and maintenance of an active and substantive political dialogue, as well as practical collaboration in the trade, economic and humanitarian spheres, in the interests of the peoples of our countries and in support of sustainable peace and development on the African continent.” He wished Nigeria continued prosperity and well-being.
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, also conveyed congratulations on behalf of the government and people of Nigeria. Tuggar praised the steady growth of bilateral relations across multiple sectors since 1960, including defence, education, energy, science and technology, space cooperation, trade, and cultural exchange.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening ties in ways that promote shared prosperity and contribute to a more equitable international system. Tuggar further expressed optimism about expanding cooperation in economic development, security, and people-to-people exchanges.
“Please accept the assurances of my highest consideration,” he wrote.
The anniversary marks a significant moment in the long-standing relationship between the two countries, which continues to evolve through diplomatic, economic, and strategic engagements.
