The Nigerian Navy has hosted a delegation from the Russian Navy Training Ship, Perekop, at the Headquarters of the Western Naval Command in Apapa, Lagos, in a move aimed at strengthening professional engagement and promoting naval training cooperation between both countries.
The delegation was received on Friday, November 6, 2026, by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Abubakar Mustapha, who represented the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, Admiralty Medal.
Welcoming the visiting officers, Mustapha described the port call as an important opportunity to deepen professional interaction, exchange operational experiences and strengthen existing relations between the Nigerian Navy and the Russian Navy.
He noted that visits by foreign naval training ships such as Perekop offer valuable learning opportunities for young Nigerian naval officers through practical exposure, professional exchanges and insights into international naval training practices.
The FOC further stressed that engagements with foreign naval personnel remained essential to developing professional competence, broadening operational knowledge and exposing officers to diverse approaches to maritime operations and training.
In his response, the leader of the Russian delegation, Rear Admiral Vyacheslav Borisovich Sytnik, expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Navy for the warm reception accorded his team.
Sytnik underscored the importance of naval visits in fostering mutual understanding, strengthening professional relationships and facilitating the exchange of operational experiences between the two navies.
He also expressed the Russian delegation’s interest in exploring opportunities for joint training activities with the Nigerian Navy during Perekop’s stay in Lagos, noting that such engagements would contribute to the professional development of personnel from both countries.
The visit featured discussions on naval training, professional development and maritime security, reflecting the commitment of both navies to expanding professional cooperation and strengthening institutional ties.
The engagement also highlights the importance of international naval exchanges in promoting knowledge sharing, enhancing personnel capacity and advancing cooperation in maritime security.
