By Newspot Nigeria News Desk
The Federal Government has issued a fresh warning to Nigerians against enlisting in foreign military conflicts, following reports that Nigerian nationals may have died while fighting in the war in Ukraine.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs cautioned that there is a growing pattern of illegal and deceptive recruitment of Nigerians into foreign combat zones. The warning comes after Ukrainian authorities reported the discovery of the bodies of two Nigerians allegedly killed in combat during the conflict last year. Nigerian officials said the deaths have not yet been independently confirmed.
According to the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, investigations suggest that several Nigerians were misled or coerced into signing foreign military service contracts under false pretenses. Many were reportedly promised well-paid security jobs, educational opportunities, or pathways to migration, only to find themselves deployed to active war fronts.
The ministry disclosed that some victims were compelled to sign contracts written in foreign languages without proper legal guidance, while their passports and travel documents were confiscated upon arrival. In several cases, intermediaries allegedly facilitated travel using tourist or other non-military visas, masking the true purpose of the journey.
The Nigerian government warned that participation in foreign conflicts may violate both Nigerian law and international conventions regulating mercenary activities. Citizens were urged to exercise extreme caution and to verify overseas job offers through official government channels before traveling.
Authorities also confirmed that Nigeria is working with international partners to investigate the recruitment networks involved and to strengthen public awareness campaigns. Nigerian diplomatic missions abroad have been instructed to enhance consular monitoring and issue timely advisories to citizens at risk.
The development mirrors similar warnings issued by other African governments. Kenya, for example, has cautioned its citizens after cases emerged of Kenyans being lured abroad and sent to fight in the same conflict.
Ukrainian intelligence estimates that over 1,400 individuals from 36 African countries have been recruited to fight for Russia. The conflict has also drawn scrutiny over attempts by both sides to attract foreign fighters, including from Africa.
A retired Nigerian military officer, Major Bashir Galma (rtd), described the trend as troubling, noting that Africans have historically been drawn into foreign wars under deceptive circumstances. He warned that young people continue to lose their lives in conflicts that have no direct bearing on their countries or futures.
The Nigerian government reiterated its commitment to protecting citizens at home and abroad, stressing that no Nigerian should sacrifice their life due to false promises and illegal recruitment schemes.
— Newspot Nigeria
