Russia’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podyelyshev, has dismissed reports alleging that Nigerians are being recruited to fight in the ongoing war in Ukraine, describing the claims as misleading and not connected to the Russian government.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Podyelyshev said there is no state-backed programme involving Nigerian citizens in the conflict, stressing that any such recruitment would be illegal.
“If some illegal individuals are trying to recruit Nigerians to fight in Ukraine, this is not connected with the Russian state,” the ambassador said, adding that any credible information on such activities would be forwarded to Russian law enforcement authorities for investigation.
He explained that official military cooperation between Russia and Nigeria is governed strictly by bilateral agreements, particularly in areas such as military-technical cooperation, training and possible equipment supply.
Podyelyshev described Nigeria as one of Russia’s most important partners in Africa, noting that relations with Abuja play a significant role in shaping Moscow’s engagement across West Africa.
The remarks were made during a diplomatic briefing titled “Russia in a Multipolar World Order: African Perspective,” organised to mark Russia’s Diplomatic Service Day.
The ambassador reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to a multipolar global order anchored on international law, sovereign equality and non-interference in domestic affairs. He also called for reforms of global institutions, including expanded African representation on the United Nations Security Council.
He said Nigeria remains a strategic partner, citing growing cooperation in defence, education, energy, healthcare and security. He also referenced plans for a Centre for Nuclear Science and Technology in Nigeria and expanded scholarship opportunities for Nigerian students in Russia.
The denial follows recent reports by some African nationals, including Nigerians, alleging trafficking and forced recruitment linked to the Russia–Ukraine conflict.
