The Russian Navy has strengthened its military engagement with Nigeria following the arrival of its training ship, Perekop, in Lagos for professional training and naval cooperation with the Nigerian Navy.
The development was disclosed after a Russian Navy delegation aboard the vessel visited 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, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Abubakar Mustapha, who represented the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.
Welcoming the Russian officers, Mustapha described the visit as an important opportunity to deepen bilateral naval relations, exchange operational knowledge and strengthen professional cooperation between both countries.
He noted that foreign naval training ship visits such as that of Perekop provide Nigerian naval officers, particularly young personnel, with valuable opportunities for practical exposure and interaction with international maritime training standards.
According to him, such engagements are critical to improving professional competence, expanding operational knowledge and exposing Nigerian officers to different approaches to naval operations and maritime security.
Responding, leader of the Russian delegation, Rear Admiral Vyacheslav Borisovich Sytnik, expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Navy for the warm reception and hospitality extended to his team.
