The Nigerian government is raising alarms over the illegal recruitment of its citizens into armed conflicts abroad. Officials denounce these practices as deceptive schemes that expose victims to severe security and legal risks in foreign combat zones.
In a statement released Sunday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs revealed that Nigerian nationals are being lured under false pretenses—including promises of well-paid jobs, security positions, educational opportunities, or facilitated emigration. Media reports indicate victims were subsequently forced to sign military contracts in foreign languages without legal assistance before deployment to active war zones.
This official warning aligns with findings from INPACT’s February 2026 report titled “The Business of Despair,” which documents the widespread phenomenon across Africa. The investigation reveals at least 1,417 Africans have been recruited since 2023 to fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine through campaigns targeting vulnerable youth seeking economic opportunities.
Nigerian authorities urge citizens to exercise extreme caution regarding overseas job offers and verify recruitment agencies through official channels. The government emphasizes that participation in foreign armed conflicts without state authorization violates Nigerian law and endangers both individuals and national security interests.
