Nigeria, Russia reinforce partnership to advance veterinary vaccine production
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Federal Government of Nigeria and the Russian Federation have strengthened their commitment to collaborate on livestock development, veterinary vaccine production, and agricultural technology.
In a statement shared via X on Saturday, the Nigerian government said the renewed cooperation follows a courtesy visit by Russian Ambassador Andrey Podelyshev, represented by Agricultural Attaché Vladimir Efremov, to the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development in Abuja.
The discussions aimed at “leveraging Russia’s expertise in animal health solutions to support Nigeria’s livestock sector.”
Ambassador Podelyshev highlighted Russia’s capabilities, particularly from institutions such as the Shchelkovo Biocombinat Vaccine Factory, which produces vaccines for “brucellosis, rabies, and foot-and-mouth disease.”
He emphasised that Russian vaccines are “affordable, cold-chain stable, and suitable for Nigeria’s livestock industry,” also noting Nigeria’s active role in the Golden Autumn 2025 Agro-Industrial Exhibition in Moscow, “a platform showcasing innovations in agribusiness, veterinary products, and livestock technologies.”
Minister of Livestock Development Idi Mukhtar Maiha welcomed Russia’s engagement, calling Russia a “strategic partner in modernising Nigeria’s livestock industry.” He outlined priority areas for cooperation including “feed and fodder development, disease control, genetics improvement for indigenous breeds, and adoption of advanced livestock management technologies.”
Maiha stressed Nigeria’s focus on “enhancing animal health, nutrition, and disease surveillance as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”
