Association Strengthens Bond Between Former USSR, Eastern Europe Countries and Nigeria.
By Ferdinand Olise
The Chargé de Affairs of the Belarus Embassy in Nigeria, Mr. Valeri, has applauded the Soyuznik Alumni Association, Nigeria for its significant milestone in advancing education-driven development,
strengthen Nigeria’s technical capacity, promoting industrial growth and fostering innovation-led economic transformation.
He made this remarks in Abuja at the Soyuznik Alumni National Congress 2026 with the theme “Engineering Nigeria’s Future from Education to Industrial Power.
The congress is designed as a national strategic platform dialogue and collaboration among policy makers, other critical stakeholders and the diplomatic community.
In his welcome speech, the President, Soyuznik Alumni Association, Abuja Branch, Otunba Henry Ajomale, who was represented by Hon. Niyi Fatogun, said over time, the vision of the association has evolved into a dynamic network that fosters unity, encourages collaboration and promotes mutual advancement.
“It is rooted in a time when the USSR stood as a global super-power, attracting students and professionals from across the world, including Nigeria.
However, with its dissolution in 1991, the Union gave way to independent nations, Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Estonia, Latvia and Italy.
“Despite this transformation, the bonds between the USSR and Nigeria have been strengthened. The bonds formed during that era have endured, and Syriza in Nigeria has remained a vital platform for preserving and strengthening those connections. We have engaged in humanitarian initiatives, facilitated professional networking and contributed positively to our society.
“As we reflect on our journey, we must also remain conscious of the broader global environment. The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine is a matter of deep concern. It is my sincere hope that a peaceful revolution will be achieved for the sake of humanity and global stability. Likewise, I pray for enduring peace and unity in regions experiencing unrest, particularly in the middle east. The world stands to gain far more from cooperation than from conflict”, he said.
In his keynote address, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo said the Association represent a unique chapter in Nigeria’s history.
“A generation that bridged the gap between the Cold War era and the modern technological age, returning with specialized knowledge from some of the world’s most rigorous academic institutions in the USSR and Eastern Europe”, he said.
He therefore urged members of the Association to create a strategic synergy between their wealth of experience and the nation’s vision for a rejuvenated sky.
On his part, the Chairman Soyuznik Alumni, Abuja Branch, for the Organizing Committee Soyuznik Alumni Association, Dr Agu Collins Agu, said the gathering marks a rekindling of bonds, the celebration of shared history, and the strengthening of a community that has stood the test of time and distance.
“First of all, I want to thank God Almighty, because without Him nothing would happen. Any success being made today is a team work.When we work together, we achieve more”, he said.
Also, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, NigComSat, Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen, who was represented by Engr. Ikechukwu Amalu, said to truly engineer Nigeria’s future, the country must align its educational institutions with the demand of the digital age, where emerging technology such as Artificial Intelligence, satellite connectivity and data science are redefining industries.
The Soyuznik Alumni Association, Nigeria comprises of Nigerian professionals who obtained higher education and specialized technical training in countries of the former USSR and Eastern Europe who have contributed significantly to Nigeria’s development across key sectors.
