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The Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Andrey Podelyshev, has declared the era of a unipolar world over, calling for a more just and balanced international system that recognises the rising influence of Africa and the world majority.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja to mark Russian Diplomats Day, Podelyshev outlined Russia’s vision for a multipolar era, where sovereign equality and civilisational diversity serve as the bedrock of global stability.
The Ambassador emphasised that the shift away from a West-centric order is an objective reality, noting that the combined GDP of the BRICS nations now exceeds that of the G7.
He argued that many nations are increasingly rejecting a system where rules are defined by a privileged few, seeking instead a world where every country can choose its own development path without external pressure.
“True multipolarity rests on legal equality of states and respect for identity,” Podelyshev stated, highlighting that no single model of governance should claim universal status.
He further noted that Russia views itself as one of the equal centres of global equilibrium, acting as a pillar of balance for those who value predictability.
A significant portion of the briefing was dedicated to the strategic importance of Nigeria.
He described Nigeria as the leading link in West Africa and a potential global centre of influence.
“When we speak about Africa, we must speak about Nigeria,” he said, citing the country’s massive demographic potential, resource wealth and regional leadership.
He expressed Russia’s support for democratising the UN Security Council, suggesting that Nigeria is a nation that could reasonably aspire to represent Africa in a reformed council.
The press conference highlighted the deepening cooperation between Moscow and Abuja, which recently celebrated the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations in November 2025.
Key areas of partnership include energy and industry, where the ambassador said that Russia is working toward building a Centre for Nuclear Science and Technology in Nigeria, with plans for a nuclear power plant.
According to him, there is also ongoing interest in modernising metallurgical and transport infrastructure in Nigeria with the support of Russia.
Ambassador Podelyshev also listed that over 32,000 African students currently study in Russia, with Nigerian students continuing to benefit from state quotas in fields like engineering and medicine.
He also stated that Nigeria and Russia were working out a framework to advance cooperation on security. According to him, a military-technical cooperation agreement is currently in force to help Nigeria combat terrorism and piracy through the supply of equipment and personnel training.
He further hinted that as part of its humanitarian efforts, Russia has donated over 100,000 tons of mineral fertilisers to several African nations, including Nigeria.
Podelyshev also reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to the principle of “African solutions to African problems,” insisting that development works only through equal partnership without political conditions or hidden agendas.
He praised the growing autonomy of African states in global institutions, noting that they increasingly vote based on their own national interests.
He noted that the emerging multipolar world offers a historic opportunity to create an international order free from ‘diktat and neo-colonialism,’ ensuring security and stability for all nations.
