Niger and Russia have moved to deepen economic cooperation in agriculture and mining as Governor Mohammed Bago received a delegation of Russian businessmen in Minna.

A statement by the governor’s chief press secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, announced the development on Wednesday.

The delegation included representatives of Sber Bank of Russia, the Russian Trade Commission, equipment manufacturers, strategic partners, and Rostselmash, led by Peter Arseniev. The team was on a fact-finding mission following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the state and Sber Bank regarding agriculture and mining.

The governor welcomed the delegation, describing the visit as a demonstration of his commitment to agreements and proof that his earlier trip to Russia was yielding positive results.

Mr Bago expressed delight, saying the engagement marked the beginning of a promising future for Niger State in agriculture, mining, and other collaborative ventures. He assured the visitors of continuous follow-up on the partnership, while also emphasising interest in expanding cooperation to telemedicine and education.

Sammy Adigun, the chairman of Niger Foods, said the visitors had toured the farms and confirmed the state’s abundance of land and water resources.

Mr Arseniev and other delegation members described their experience as exciting, interesting, and fruitful, noting Niger State’s immense agricultural potential and investment opportunities. They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening partnerships and unlocking resources to promote sustainable growth in the state.

(NAN)