Federal Government Partners Russia To Boost AI, Renewable Energy Technologies

The federal government of Nigeria has begun strategic discussions with the Russian government to drive an artificial intelligence-powered economy and expand technology-driven employment opportunities in Nigeria.

Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, Kingsley Udeh, shared this update in a statement on his verified X page on Thursday.

Udeh hosted Max Petrov, trade commissioner of the Russian Federation, at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.

He said the meeting reinforced the federal government’s commitment to deepening high-impact bilateral cooperation with Russia, as part of Nigeria’s strategy to accelerate an innovation-driven, technology-powered economy.

“Our discussions focused on translating diplomacy into measurable technological outcomes that support economic diversification, job creation and global competitiveness,” Udeh said.

According to the minister, the engagement explored collaboration in artificial intelligence, robotics, renewable energy technologies, and advanced engineering.

The discussions also focused on digital transformation and smart systems, with particular emphasis on research, development, and technology transfer.

“We also examined structured partnerships in STEM education, scholarships, academic exchanges and technical training in priority areas such as robotics, drone technologies for agriculture and industrial automation,” Udeh said.

He noted that the government intends to ensure effective knowledge transfer, capacity development, and the commercialisation of innovation to drive national growth.

According to Udeh, the Russian delegation expressed strong confidence in Nigeria’s innovation potential and readiness to move from dialogue to implementation.

He added that the ministry will continue to facilitate enabling policy frameworks, joint technical working groups, and actionable programmes that deliver tangible outcomes, attract technology-driven investment, and position Nigeria as a leading innovation frontier in Africa.