(DDM) – The Federal Government has issued a strong warning to citizens about illegal recruitment into foreign armed conflicts after fresh cases linked to the Russia-Ukraine war raised alarm among officials.
DDM confirms that Nigeria, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nigeria, cautioned citizens against accepting offers that could funnel them into overseas battlefields.
Officials describe the trend as dangerous and deceptive, saying recruiters often lure young Nigerians with promises of high-paying jobs, security work, education, or migration pathways.
Authorities explain that some victims only realize the truth after arriving abroad, where handlers allegedly pressure or coerce them into signing military contracts.
The ministry stresses that participation in foreign wars outside official government frameworks exposes citizens to life-threatening risks and potential legal violations.
It emphasizes that mercenary activities and unauthorized foreign enlistment can breach both Nigerian and international laws.
Government statements underline that any citizen who joins such conflicts does so at personal risk without state protection.
Officials reveal that Nigeria is coordinating with partners at home and abroad to track and investigate recruitment networks.
They add that Nigerian diplomatic missions have received instructions to heighten vigilance and provide timely guidance to nationals.
The government calls on parents, guardians, community leaders, and schools to educate youths about recruitment traps.
It advises citizens to verify overseas opportunities through recognized government channels before traveling.
Authorities also urge the public to report suspicious recruiters to security agencies.
The warning follows confirmation from Ukrainian authorities that two Nigerians recently died while fighting for Russian forces.
The deceased, identified as Hamzat Kazeen Kolawole and Mbah Stephen Udoka, reportedly joined the Russian military in 2025.
Officials say neither man had formal military training before deployment.
They reportedly died in November in the Luhansk region during fighting tied to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Security sources indicate that some recruits sign documents written in foreign languages without legal advice.
They add that certain agents allegedly seize travel documents on arrival, limiting victims’ ability to leave.
Investigators note that many recruits travel on tourist or non-military visas, masking the true purpose of their trips.
Analysts say economic hardship and unemployment can make young people vulnerable to such schemes.
Migration experts warn that social media now enables recruiters to reach targets quickly across borders.
Human rights advocates argue that stronger awareness campaigns could reduce vulnerability.
The Nigerian government reiterates that it remains committed to protecting citizens’ welfare and dignity worldwide.
Officials insist that no Nigerian should be trafficked or exploited into foreign conflicts under any circumstance.
They promise continued monitoring and cooperation with international partners to curb illegal recruitment pipelines.
The latest deaths, they say, highlight the real cost of misinformation and desperation in a globalized world.
