The Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podyelyshev, has denied reports alleging that Nigerians are being recruited to fight in the ongoing war in Ukraine, describing the claims as misleading and unconnected to the Russian government.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, the ambassador said there is no state-backed programme involving Nigerian citizens in the conflict, stressing that any such activities would be illegal.
“If some illegal individuals are trying to recruit Nigerians to fight in Ukraine, this is not connected with the Russian state,” Podyelyshev said, adding that Moscow would forward any credible information to Russian law enforcement authorities for investigation.
He explained that official military engagement between Russia and Nigeria is governed strictly by bilateral agreements, particularly in the area of military-technical cooperation, including training and possible equipment supply.
Podyelyshev described Nigeria as one of Russia’s most important partners in Africa, noting that relations with Abuja significantly shape Moscow’s engagement in West Africa.
The remarks were made during a diplomatic briefing titled “Russia in a Multipolar World Order: African Perspective,” held to mark Russia’s Diplomatic Service Day.
The ambassador reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to a multipolar global system based on international law, sovereign equality and non-interference, while calling for reforms to global institutions, including expanded African representation on the UN Security Council.
Nigeria, he said, remains a strategic partner, citing growing cooperation in defence, education, energy, healthcare and security, as well as plans for a Centre for Nuclear Science and Technology and expanded scholarships for Nigerian students in Russia.
By Michael Olugbode, Abuja
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