Sunday, February 15 2026 - 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 organizations 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 emphasize 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.
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