Russia opens grain route: Boosting ties with Africa
Russia plans to launch a new shipping line aimed at exporting agricultural products, including grains seized from Ukraine, to Africa. This initiative is part of Moscow's broader strategy to strengthen relations with Nigeria and other African countries, reports Business Insider Africa.
Russia intends to launch a new shipping line connecting Novorossiysk with Lagos, which is set to begin in mid-June. According to Business Insider Africa, this sea route is designed to facilitate the export of agricultural products, including grains from Ukraine, to Africa. With no direct air connection to Nigeria, this initiative is crucial for Russia's trade strategy.
New Russian connections for raw material sales
The Kremlin also plans to link Novorossiysk with Dakar in Senegal, which will aid in exporting raw materials from Mali. Additionally, Russia is strengthening military ties with Nigeria. In March 2025, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yunus-bek Yevkurov met with General Christopher Musa, Nigeria's Chief of Defense Staff, to discuss arms deliveries, continuing an agreement from 2021.
Nigeria, Africa's most populous country, joined the BRICS group as a partner in January, despite Western pressures. Russia seeks to play a leading role in this group as part of its strategy to increase its influence in the region. Nigeria has long resisted Russia but is now enhancing cooperation.
Reports of Russia exporting Ukrainian grain have been surfacing since the beginning of the war. According to Ukraine, in 2023, the Russians illegally exported at least 4 million metric tons (approximately 4.4 million US tons) of grain from occupied territories. Before the Russian invasion, up until February 2022, Ukraine was exporting 6 million metric tons (approximately 6.6 million US tons) of grain monthly through Black Sea ports alone. In total, in 2024, Ukraine exported 47.6 million metric tons (approximately 52.5 million US tons) of grain, marking a 30% increase compared to 2023.
