The Nigerian government has unleashed strong warnings following reports confirming that two Nigerians were killed in Ukraine while fighting on the side of the Russian army.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, expressed deep concern over what he described as the growing trend of Nigerians being illegally recruited to participate in foreign armed conflicts.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson on Sunday, February 15, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the minister cautioned citizens to be wary of offers that may lure them into war zones under false pretences.
Ukraine’s Military Intelligence disclosed that the two Nigerians identified as Hamzat Kolawole and Mbah Udoka were found d3aad in the Luhansk region of eastern Ukraine, a key frontline area in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine War.
According to Ukrainian authorities, the individuals had signed contracts with the Russian military in 2025 before their deaths.
The minister’s statement noted that recent media investigations and security reports suggest Nigerian nationals are often recruited through deceptive promises of lucrative jobs, security work, scholarships, or migration opportunities.
“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.
“Reports suggest that recruitment tactics involve deceptive offers of high monthly salaries, signing bonuses, and fast-tracked citizenship.
“In several instances, victims are reportedly compelled to sign contracts in foreign languages without adequate legal guidance, and their travel documents are allegedly confiscated upon arrival.
“Reports also indicate the involvement of intermediaries or agents who facilitate travel arrangements under tourist or other non-military visa categories.”
Investigations by international media organisations have highlighted cases of Africans including Nigerians allegedly lured to Russia with promises of employment and education, only to be deployed to combat zones. Some reports also documented cases of young African women recruited under scholarship schemes who later faced exploitation.
The minister stressed that Nigerians must avoid participating in foreign wars outside officially approved government frameworks, warning that such actions may violate both Nigerian and international laws on 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.
“To address the anomaly, government is engaging relevant domestic and international partners to investigate these developments and to enhance public awareness of the dangers of illegal recruitment.
“Nigerian Missions abroad have also been directed to strengthen consular vigilance and provide timely advisory services to Nigerian nationals,” he said.