The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a formal warning to its citizens following a surge in reports of nationals being illegally recruited under false pretences to fight in foreign armed conflicts.
In a statement released Sunday, February 15, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed "grave concern" over an alarming trend where Nigerians are lured abroad with promises of high-paying jobs, only to find themselves coerced into military service. The warning comes as international security reports confirm the deaths of several Nigerian nationals on the front lines of the Russia-Ukraine war.
"Recent media investigations and security reports indicate that Nigerian nationals were allegedly recruited under false pretences, including promises of lucrative employment, security jobs, educational opportunities, or migration incentives," stated Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to the Ministry, many victims are misled into signing military contracts written in foreign languages without legal guidance. Upon arrival in the host country, their travel documents are often confiscated, leaving them stranded and forced into combat zones. The government noted that these operations are frequently facilitated by intermediaries who use tourist or non-military visa categories to bypass oversight.
The human cost of these recruitment schemes has become increasingly visible. Just two days prior to the government's announcement, Ukrainian military intelligence reported the deaths of two Nigerians, Hamzat Kazeem Kolawole and Mbah Stephen Udoka, who were killed in the Luhansk region while serving with the Russian army. Reports indicate the men had signed contracts in late 2025, believing they were taking up civilian security roles.
"The Federal Government of Nigeria unequivocally warns all citizens against engaging in or accepting any offer that involves participation in foreign armed conflicts," Ebienfa added. He emphasised that such actions not only endanger lives but also risk violating international laws governing mercenary activities.
The Ministry has now directed Nigerian Missions abroad to "strengthen consular vigilance" and provide immediate advisory services to nationals who may be targeted. The government is also engaging with international partners to investigate the networks facilitating these illegal recruitments.
Parents, guardians, and educational institutions are being urged to sensitise young Nigerians to the risks of deceptive foreign job offers. The government stressed that any overseas employment or study opportunity should be verified through official channels before any travel arrangements are made.
"Nigeria remains committed to safeguarding the welfare and dignity of its citizens at home and abroad," the statement concluded, reiterating that Nigerian nationals must not be exploited or trafficked into foreign conflicts under any circumstances.