Russia launches new shipping line to bolster African trade ties
Russia plans to launch a new shipping line aimed at exporting agricultural products, including grain acquired from Ukraine, to Africa. This initiative is part of Moscow's broader strategy to strengthen ties with Nigeria and other African countries, reports Business Insider Africa.
Russia intends to establish a new shipping route connecting Novorossiysk with Lagos by mid-June. According to Business Insider Africa, this sea route aims to facilitate the export of agricultural products, including Ukrainian grain, to Africa. Given that Russia lacks direct air links with Nigeria, this venture is vital to its trade strategy.
New connections for Russia to export raw materials
The Kremlin also plans a route between Novorossiysk and Dakar in Senegal to support the export of raw materials from Mali. Simultaneously, Russia is strengthening military relations with Nigeria. In March 2025, Russian Deputy Minister of Defence Yunus-bek Yevkurov met with General Christopher Musa, Nigeria's Chief of Defence Staff, to discuss arms deliveries, continuing an agreement established in 2021.
Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, joined the BRICS group as a partner country in January, even amid Western pressure. Russia aspires to take a leading role in this group as part of its strategy to enhance its influence in the region. Although Nigeria has historically resisted Russia, it is now deepening its cooperation.
It is noteworthy that reports of Russia exporting Ukrainian grain have been circulating since the onset of the conflict. According to Ukraine, in 2023, Russia illegally exported at least 4 million tonnes of grain from occupied territories. Before the Russian invasion, until February 2022, Ukrainians exported 6 million tonnes of grain monthly through Black Sea ports alone. In total, in 2024, Ukraine exported 47.6 million tonnes of grain, marking a 30% increase compared to 2023.
