By Wealth Oghenemaro
The Russian Federation has committed to offering no fewer than 500,000 scholarships to international students, including Nigerians, as part of its long-term education and diplomatic outreach.
This announcement was made by the Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podelyshev, during a media briefing in Abuja on Monday night. The event was held in preparation for the upcoming celebration of Russia Day on June 12.
Ambassador Podelyshev outlined Russia’s broader strategy to enhance educational and diplomatic relations, particularly with African countries. He emphasized the country’s plan to significantly boost the number of African and Nigerian students in Russian universities.
“The Russian President, Vladimir Putin, will increase the number of international students in Russia to 500,000 in the long term,” Podelyshev stated.
He revealed that the current figure is less than half that target, with around 32,000 African students currently enrolled in Russian universities and approximately 2,000 from Nigeria. He assured that, “In line with the president’s objective, the current quota will be increased every year to achieve targets.”
For the 2025 academic year, 220 scholarships have already been allocated to Nigerian students. These scholarships, which were approved in 2024, cover not only tuition fees but also living expenses. However, Podelyshev clarified that travel costs would be the responsibility of the students’ home governments.
He described the initiative as part of a long-term strategy to strengthen cooperation between Russia and Nigeria, particularly in vital sectors such as nuclear energy and industrial development.
“If Russia is involved in rebuilding a plant in Ajaokuta or establishing nuclear plants, we will need Nigerian professionals trained in Russia to implement these projects,” the ambassador explained.
Podelyshev also highlighted Russia’s intent to align education with major bilateral economic projects through mechanisms like the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation.
To address concerns about brain drain, the ambassador said that a strategic framework would be put in place to ensure that students return home after their studies to contribute to national development.
“If students know they are being trained for specific national projects that require their expertise upon return, they will have stronger incentives to come back,” he said.
