Russian oil firms plan 10,000 jobs in Nigeria

The Deputy Head of Mission, Russian Embassy,
Valeriy Shaposhmikov has said two major
Russian oil companies, Gazprom and Lukoil
would be coming to invest in Nigeria’s oil and gas
sector.
The envoy stated that the proposed nuclear
power plant in the country would generate
10,000 jobs and also create new industries.
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Speaking to journalists during the Russian
Federation Day celebration on Thursday in Abuja,
the diplomat observed that there are various
opportunities for Russian firms in Nigeria, noting
that Gazprom could be involved in developing oil
and gas pipelines infrastructure and protection
system.
He said, “As you know, we have an agreement
signed on the construction of nuclear power
plants in Nigeria. The implementation of this
project only, in addition to a substantial increase
in power generation capacity, is able to bring a
minimum of 10,000 jobs and create new
industries in the country.
“An important area could be oil and gas sector – a
major Russian oil and gas company Gazprom
could be involved in developing pipelines
infrastructure and protection system, an oil
company Lukoil is coming to work here. There is
interest in the development of the solid mineral
resources.”
Shaposhmikov said his country looks forward to
getting support from the Federal Government to
solve the critical issues in Alascon Aluminium
Company, Akwa-Ibom State, which is owned by
Rusal, a Russian aluminum company.
He stated that Alscon needs non-stop supply of
gas as constant interruptions in gas delivery to
the company had led to great losses, putting into
question the existence of the commercial project.
“We do also worry about the safety of
investment. The property rights of Rusal over
Alscon shares should be confirmed. With all
these problems removed, Alscon will be able to
restart producing aluminum,” the envoy said.
While welcoming guests to the anniversary
celebration, the Russian Ambassador, Mr. Nikolay
Udovichenko, said he supported the recent
changes in Nigeria explaining that peaceful and
democratic transition of power was an important
step towards development.
He expressed willingness to work with Nigeria in
the security, economic and educational sectors
even as he applauded President Muhammadu
Buhari on his commitment to fight terrorism,
adding that the Russian Federation is ready to
give the necessary support.
“We do not only strongly wish the new Nigerian
government success in this field, but we are also
ready to give all necessary support in different
spheres, including security, economy and even
education,” Udovichenko promised.