Students, academics, diplomats, government officials, and cultural enthusiasts gathered at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) for a Russia-Africa cultural event that celebrated historical ties, showcased student talent, and highlighted the growing importance of language as a tool for diplomacy, international business, and global cooperation.
Held on June 5 at the Faculty of European Languages, the programme featured a photo exhibition, documentary screenings, cultural performances, and discussions on the future of Africa-Russia relations. Guests from Moscow presented historical photographs, contemporary artworks, and films reflecting the longstanding relationship between African countries, the former Soviet Union, and modern Russia.
The event drew a diverse audience, including students, school pupils, university faculty members, and government officials, many of whom expressed support for strengthening educational, cultural, and economic ties between Nigeria and Russia.
Speaking during the event, the Head of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Elizabeth Ajetunmobi, challenged students to embrace confidence, communication, and continuous self-development, describing communication as “a bridge, not a performance.”
Addressing students studying the Russian language, she stressed that mastery comes through persistence rather than perfection.
“Every fluent speaker you admire today started somewhere. They made mistakes, learned from them, and kept improving. Confidence is built through practice,” she said.
Ajetunmobi urged students to learn, unlearn, and relearn, emphasizing that language acquisition extends far beyond the classroom.
“Communication is not just for fun. It should shape your life globally. It bridges gaps between countries, cultures, and people,” she said.
According to her, students studying Russian occupy a strategic position in strengthening relations between Nigeria and Russia through diplomacy, trade, cultural exchange, and international business.
“They are not just learning a language. They are future translators, diplomats, lawyers, and international business professionals. There cannot be meaningful cooperation between Nigeria and Russia without people who can bridge both cultures and languages,” she added.
Reflecting on her own career journey, Ajetunmobi revealed that although she studied Economics, she built a successful career in public relations through more than a decade of consistent learning and practice.
“I have been practicing public relations for over 11 years. I did not become a communications professional overnight. Growth comes from practice, adjustment, and repetition,” she said.
She also cautioned students against confusing confidence with arrogance, encouraging them to remain humble and open to learning from others regardless of age or status.
The event also featured discussions on a documentary exploring the historical relationship between Africa and Russia.
Speaking on the significance of the film, Dr Joshua Oranbiyi described it as an important reminder of the cooperation that has existed between African nations and Russia over several decades.
According to him, many Africans are familiar with Western involvement on the continent but are less aware of the historical contributions of the Soviet Union and Russia to African liberation movements and independence struggles.
“The documentary shows examples of cooperation and support during important moments in African history and encourages future partnerships based on mutual respect and shared development,” he said.
He called for stronger cooperation between Africa and Russia, arguing that future engagements should prioritize education, local development, value addition, and mutually beneficial partnerships.
Throughout modern history, he noted, the Soviet Union and later the Russian Federation have supported African countries in their pursuit of sovereignty and development while contributing to educational, economic, and humanitarian initiatives across the continent.
The programme also drew praise from Russian guest Caleb Vasiliev, who commended both the student performances and the welcoming atmosphere at the university.
“I think everybody is enjoying the moment, and I hope it will be a memorable experience,” he said.
Describing the performances as “absolutely adorable,” Vasiliev said he was impressed by the enthusiasm of the students and the warmth of the university community.
Reflecting on the documentary, caleb described it as informative and valuable in highlighting the long-standing relationship between Russia and Africa.
When asked what he would take back home from his visit, Vasiliev pointed to the hospitality he experienced throughout the programme.
“I would definitely like to take back this cheerful feeling, the joy, and the friendly atmosphere that I have experienced here,” he said.
Participants were not merely spectators. Students actively contributed through traditional dances, songs, and cultural displays, reinforcing the role of cultural diplomacy in fostering international understanding.
Both students and faculty members called for more exhibitions, film screenings, exchange programmes, and academic collaborations to deepen engagement between Nigeria and Russia.
Supported by the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Nigeria, the University of Lagos, and the Russian Language Learning Center, the event underscored the importance of people-to-people connections in strengthening educational programmes, humanitarian exchanges, economic cooperation, and sustainable development.
For many of the students in attendance, the programme served as both a celebration of Russia-Africa relations and a reminder that language skills, cultural understanding, and effective communication can open doors to leadership opportunities on the global stage.
