Daniel Adaji
Nigeria and Russia are moving to deepen cooperation in livestock disease control, vaccine production and agricultural technology after a courtesy visit by the Russian Embassy to the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development in Abuja.
The Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podelyshev — represented by Vladimir Efremov, Agricultural Attaché at the Embassy — reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in closing vaccine supply gaps and enhancing animal health systems.
Efremov shared updated product catalogues from Russia’s Animal Health Centre and referenced ongoing technical discussions between both countries. He pointed to the expertise of Russian research institutions in tackling livestock diseases and advancing veterinary technology.
According to him, Nigeria’s strong participation in the Golden Autumn 2025 Agro-Industrial Exhibition in Moscow demonstrated growing collaboration. More than 40 Nigerian delegates attended the event, including a visit to the Shchelkovo Biocombinat Vaccine Factory, which has produced vaccines against brucellosis, rabies and foot-and-mouth disease for over a century. Russian representatives emphasised that their vaccines are affordable, cold-chain stable and suitable for local livestock producers.
The envoy also announced plans for a diplomatic reception and photo exhibition in Abuja on November 25 to mark 60 years of Nigeria–Russia relations, extending an invitation to the Minister.
Responding, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, welcomed the renewed engagement. He described Russia as a strategic partner with advanced capabilities in animal genetics, vaccine development and scientific innovation — areas that directly align with Nigeria’s livestock transformation goals under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Maiha said the country needs urgent modernisation in genetics, nutrition, animal health and disease surveillance to unlock the full potential of its livestock industry. He identified feed and fodder development, disease control and improved indigenous breed genetics as critical areas where Russian support could make a meaningful difference.
The Minister also expressed readiness to facilitate partnerships between Russian vaccine manufacturers and Nigeria’s National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), noting that the country’s vast market and expanding livestock sector present strong investment opportunities in ranching, veterinary pharmaceuticals and cold-chain technology.
He assured the delegation that the ministry is eager to work with Russia on practical solutions that protect animal health, boost productivity and support food security efforts nationwide.
