The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has reiterated Nigeria’s willingness to strengthen relations with Russia and engage more robustly with the BRICS platform to foster inclusive development.
She stated this in a release on Wednesday by her Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Dr Magnus Eze.
The statement came after an interactive stakeholders’ session held during the visit of the Russian Chapter of the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance (WBA) at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu explained that Nigeria and Russia were preparing to advance cooperation through the BRICS WBA framework.
“Though, Nigeria and Russia share decades of friendship, cooperation, and solidarity cutting across education, defence, energy, technology, and multilateral diplomacy, the moment demanded they go beyond history and look boldly into the future,” she said.
She highlighted that President Bola Tinubu’s government had charted a new path through the Renewed Hope Agenda and the 4-Ds foreign policy pillars: Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora.
The minister commended the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for hosting the session, describing her as a clear demonstration of the impact women have in building societies and driving global partnerships.
She applauded the Russian delegation led by Chairperson Ms. Anna Nesterova, observing that bringing the BRICS WBA to Nigeria underscored a strong dedication to shared economic progress.
“This underlines the central role women play in reshaping global business, diplomacy and investment for the 21st century.
“She has championed women’s empowerment programmes, education for the girl-child, and support systems that enable women to thrive in business, politics, and community development.
“Her leadership continues to inspire Nigerian women to break barriers, embrace innovation, and contribute more actively to national progress.
“It is most fitting that this session, in honour of the Russian Chapter of the BRICS WBA, is hosted under her distinguished guidance,” she said.
She emphasized Nigeria’s strong commitment to expanding its bilateral relationship with Russia while also strengthening its engagement within the BRICS framework. According to her, this approach aligns with the country’s vision of building broader partnerships that drive sustainable development and global cooperation.
She noted that the ongoing discussions with Russia and the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance were expected to pave the way for more robust relations, stronger connections among citizens, and fresh opportunities that would enhance economic growth and improve the quality of life for Nigerians.
