The Nigerian Navy and the Russian Navy are exploring opportunities for joint training programmes and professional exchanges aimed at strengthening naval cooperation and enhancing the operational capabilities of personnel from both countries.
The development followed a visit by a delegation from the Russian Navy Training Ship, Perekop, to the Headquarters of the Western Naval Command in Apapa, Lagos, on Friday, November 6, 2026.
The visiting delegation was received by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Abubakar Mustapha, who represented the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.
Speaking during the engagement, Mustapha described the visit as an opportunity to deepen professional relationships, exchange operational experiences and strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two navies.
He noted that visits by foreign naval training ships such as Perekop offered valuable learning opportunities for young Nigerian naval officers through practical exposure, professional interaction and familiarisation with international naval training practices.
According to him, engagements with foreign naval personnel are important for developing professional competence, broadening operational knowledge and exposing officers to different approaches to maritime operations and training.
The FOC stressed that such interactions would contribute to building a professionally competent naval force capable of responding effectively to evolving maritime security challenges.
In his remarks, the head of the Russian delegation, Rear Admiral Vyacheslav Borisovich Sytnik, expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Navy for the warm reception accorded his team.
Sytnik underscored the importance of naval visits in promoting mutual understanding, strengthening professional relationships and facilitating the exchange of operational experiences between maritime forces.
He also expressed the Russian delegation’s interest in exploring opportunities for joint training activities with the Nigerian Navy during the ship’s stay in Lagos.
He noted that such engagements would enhance the professional development of personnel from both countries while creating opportunities for greater cooperation in naval training and maritime operations.
The discussions also focused on naval training, professional development and maritime security, reflecting the growing importance of international partnerships in strengthening naval capabilities.
The visit is expected to provide an avenue for both navies to identify areas of common interest, deepen institutional relationships and explore practical opportunities for sustained professional collaboration.
The engagement further underscores the importance of international naval cooperation in improving personnel development, sharing operational knowledge and strengthening collective efforts towards maritime security.
