Nigeria is a prominent figure on the African continent, being the most populous country and holding significant influence and respect. The country has a fast-growing economy with ample investment opportunities. It also plays a crucial role in regional security in West Africa.
Nigeria is seen as a powerful force in West Africa, acting as a leader and big brother to other nations in the region. However, the country has concerns about Russia’s intentions and actions in the region, stemming from several issues.
Broken Promises
Nigeria and Russia have maintained diplomatic relations, but these have not yielded the expected benefits for Nigeria. Russia has historically seen Africa as a strategic location to monitor Europe from a southern perspective. Despite efforts to build a relationship with Nigeria since the 1960s, progress has been slow due to Nigeria’s close ties with the West.
Russia was able to establish a foothold in Nigeria during the civil war in the late 1960s, providing military support that helped Nigeria. However, subsequent promises and agreements have not been fully honored, leading to skepticism on Nigeria’s part.
Despite attempts to revive the relationship through visits and agreements, promises on projects like a petrochemical plant and nuclear energy collaboration have not materialized, raising doubts about Russia’s reliability as a partner.
Negotiations for a nuclear power plant in Nigeria also faced delays, indicating Russia’s unreliability in fulfilling commitments.
Regional Influence of Russia in the Sahel.
Nigeria is concerned about Russia’s influence in the Sahel region, where the promotion of undemocratic ideals has led to instability and insecurity. Russia’s support for military regimes in countries like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso has raised alarms, as these regimes trade security for mineral resources.
Local populations in these countries suffer as resources are exploited to fund Russia’s conflicts, contributing to poverty and corruption. Nigeria is troubled by the erosion of democratic values in the region due to Russia’s actions.
Diminishing influence of ECOWAS due to Russia’s influence on AES
Nigeria observes the decline of ECOWAS’s influence in West Africa, as countries like Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger shift their allegiance to the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), driven by Russia’s influence. This change threatens regional integration and progress achieved through ECOWAS.
Russia’s involvement in diverting these countries from ECOWAS poses a challenge to regional stability and cooperation. Nigeria, as a key player in ECOWAS, aims to address the negative impact of Russia’s influence and preserve the region’s achievements.