Nigeria Issues Stern Warning Against Recruitment for Russia-Ukraine War
The Nigerian government has unleashed a series of strong warnings and expressed deep concern following confirmed reports that two Nigerian citizens were killed while fighting on the side of the Russian army in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine War. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, highlighted what he described as a growing and dangerous trend of Nigerians being illegally recruited to participate in foreign armed conflicts.
Details of the Fatal Incident
Ukraine's Military Intelligence agency disclosed that the two Nigerians, identified as Hamzat Kolawole and Mbah Udoka, were found deceased in the Luhansk region of eastern Ukraine. This area is a key frontline zone in the protracted conflict between Russia and Ukraine. According to official Ukrainian authorities, both individuals had signed contracts with the Russian military in 2025 prior to their tragic deaths.
Deceptive Recruitment Tactics Exposed
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, on Sunday, February 15, Minister Tuggar cautioned Nigerian citizens to be extremely wary of offers that may lure them into war zones under false pretences. The statement noted that recent media investigations and security reports suggest Nigerian nationals are often recruited through a web of deceptive promises.
"Several Nigerians who have fallen victim to such unfortunate situations were deployed to combat zones, after being misled and coerced into signing military service contracts," Mr. Tuggar was quoted as saying.
The recruitment tactics reportedly involve:
- Deceptive offers of high monthly salaries and substantial signing bonuses.
- False promises of fast-tracked citizenship in foreign countries.
- Misleading opportunities presented as lucrative jobs, security work, scholarships, or migration pathways.
In several documented instances, victims are reportedly compelled to sign contracts written in foreign languages without access to adequate legal guidance or translation. Furthermore, their travel documents are allegedly confiscated upon arrival in the host country, leaving them vulnerable and trapped.
Broader Pattern of Exploitation
Investigations by reputable international media organisations have highlighted multiple cases of Africans, including Nigerians, being allegedly lured to Russia with promises of employment and educational opportunities, only to be forcibly deployed to active combat zones. Some reports have also documented disturbing cases of young African women recruited under the guise of scholarship schemes who later faced various forms of exploitation and danger.
The minister's statement also pointed to the involvement of intermediaries or agents who facilitate travel arrangements for recruits under tourist visas or other non-military visa categories, thereby circumventing legal scrutiny.
Government Stance and Legal Warnings
Minister Tuggar stressed that Nigerians must categorically avoid participating in foreign wars outside officially approved government frameworks. He issued a clear warning that such actions may constitute violations of both Nigerian domestic laws and international statutes concerning mercenary activities and foreign enlistment.
"The Ministry wishes to emphasise that Nigerians who choose to participate in foreign conflicts outside approved governmental frameworks do so at their own risk," the minister stated unequivocally.
Ongoing Government Actions
To address this alarming anomaly, the Nigerian government is actively engaging relevant domestic and international partners. The objectives are twofold: to thoroughly investigate these developments and to enhance public awareness regarding the severe dangers associated with illegal recruitment for foreign conflicts.
In a proactive measure, Nigerian diplomatic missions abroad have been directed to strengthen consular vigilance and provide timely advisory services to Nigerian nationals living overseas. This initiative aims to prevent further victimisation and offer support to those who may be targeted by such predatory recruitment schemes.
The government's firm stance underscores its commitment to protecting its citizens from exploitation and the grave risks inherent in involvement in foreign armed conflicts.
