Following reports that two Nigerians were killed while fighting in the Russia-Ukraine war, the Federal Government has warned citizens to avoid offers that could lead to recruitment into foreign armed conflicts.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the victims’ bodies were recovered in Ukraine’s Luhansk region, a frontline area of the ongoing war. The two Nigerians, identified as Hamzat Kolawole and Mbah Udoka, were said to have enlisted in the Russian military in 2025 after signing service contracts.
Government officials said investigations show that many Nigerians are being misled by recruiters who promise lucrative jobs, travel opportunities, or residency abroad, only for them to end up in combat roles.
The ministry noted that some victims were asked to sign contracts written in unfamiliar languages, while others allegedly had their travel documents seized, limiting their ability to withdraw.
Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, cautioned Nigerians against accepting such offers, stressing that participation in foreign wars outside official approval poses serious dangers and legal implications.
He added that the government is working with international partners to investigate the situation, while Nigerian missions abroad have been directed to strengthen support and advisory services for citizens.
The government also urged Nigerians to carefully verify overseas opportunities and avoid falling prey to deceptive recruitment schemes.
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