President Vladimir Putin of Russia has pledged closer ties with Nigeria and other African countries.

He assured leaders in the continent that the European country was ready to partner African states to develop their energy, Information Communication, education and health sectors, among others.

His camment came as Vice President Kashim Shettima said Nigeria would partner with Russia to revive the Aluminium Smelter Company of Nigeria, particularly by engaging with key stakeholders in the industry.⁣

They both spoke at the ongoing Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum held at ongoing Russia-Africa Summit in St. Petersburg, Russia.

The summit is being attended by several African heads of states including Shettima who represented President Bola Tinubu, and President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe.