The Federal Government has issued a strong warning against the illegal recruitment of Nigerian citizens into foreign armed conflicts, particularly amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, raised the alarm in a statement released on Sunday by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa. where he cautioned that Nigerians who engage in foreign conflicts outside approved government frameworks do so at their own peril.
Tuggar expressed grave concern over a growing and disturbing trend of Nigerian nationals being lured into foreign wars through deceptive recruitment schemes.
According to him, recent media reports suggest that some citizens were misled with promises of lucrative employment, private security jobs, educational placements, and migration incentives.
“Several Nigerians who have fallen victim to such unfortunate situations were deployed to combat zones after being misled and coerced into signing military service contracts,” the minister stated.
He disclosed that recruiters often entice victims with offers of high monthly salaries, signing bonuses, and fast-tracked citizenship in foreign countries. In some cases, victims were allegedly compelled to sign contracts written in foreign languages without proper legal advice. There are also reports of travel documents being confiscated upon arrival in host countries, effectively trapping the individuals in war zones.
The minister further noted that intermediaries or agents sometimes facilitate such arrangements, disguising the travel process under tourist or non-military visa categories to avoid scrutiny.
Tuggar warned that participation in foreign armed conflicts not only endangers lives but may also contravene Nigerian and international laws regulating mercenary activities and foreign enlistment.
He stressed that the federal government does not condone such actions and will not assume responsibility for citizens who disregard official warnings.
To curb the trend, the government is collaborating with relevant domestic and international partners to investigate the matter and intensify public awareness campaigns on the risks of illegal recruitment. Nigerian missions abroad have also been directed to enhance consular vigilance and offer timely advisory services to nationals.
The minister called on parents, guardians, community leaders, and educational institutions to sensitise young Nigerians to the grave dangers associated with deceptive overseas recruitment schemes.
He urged citizens to verify all foreign employment or academic opportunities through official government channels and to promptly report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
“Nigeria remains committed to safeguarding the welfare and dignity of its citizens at home and abroad. Nigerian nationals must not be exploited or trafficked into foreign conflicts under any circumstances,” Tuggar emphasised.
The Russia-Ukraine conflict, which escalated into a large-scale war in 2022, has resulted in significant military and civilian casualties, underscoring the grave risks associated with involvement in foreign hostilities.