The Russian Federation has offered to increase its annual scholarship quota for Nigerian students from 220 to a potentially higher number. This offer was made during a meeting between the Russian Embassy and Nigeria’s Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy in Abuja.

The meeting aimed to explore areas of mutual interest in culture, youth development, and economic cooperation. The Russian Embassy and the Nigerian Ministry discussed ways to strengthen bilateral ties, including cultural exchange programs and creative industry development.

The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, emphasized the importance of harnessing Nigeria’s large youth population through the creative and cultural industries. 

She noted that 70% of Nigeria’s population is under the age of 30 and highlighted the need to engage young people on global issues like youth employment, economic hardship, climate change, education, and mental health challenges.