Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari will hold bilateral talks with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin during the three-day Russia-Africa Summit holding from October 23 to 25.

A statement issued by the President’s spokesman, Garba Shehu in Abuja on Sunday said Buhari who departed for Sochi on Sunday morning will meet with Putin to further strengthen the relations between Nigeria and Russia.

The presidential aircraft conveying the president and some members of his entourage took off from the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja at about 2.15 pm.

The statement said the two leaders would hold talks on security, trade and investment and building a stronger partnership which would enhance Nigeria’s huge gas potential following Russia’s remarkable success in gas exportation.

It added that the summit would focus on exploring and expanding opportunities in the areas of security, trade and investment, science and technology as well as gas production.

“The summit, which will be attended by African Heads of State will bring fresh perspectives on some global issues and challenges like nuclear technology, energy development, digital transformation, environment, technical security, mining and steel, education, agriculture, infrastructure and development strategies.

“An African Business Forum, which will bring together African and Russian business leaders will be held during the event to enhance Russian investments in Africa and promote African business interest in the host country,” the statement said.