The Nigerian government has issued an official warning to its citizens following a series of cases in which Nigerians were allegedly lured by false promises of overseas employment and later sent to combat zones connected to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

In a recent statement, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed “serious concern” over what it described as illegal and deceptive recruitment activities targeting young people seeking jobs, training, or better opportunities abroad. According to the ministry, several citizens were reportedly induced to sign military service contracts under misleading circumstances and subsequently deployed to frontline areas without proper preparation or understanding of the risks involved.

The warning follows reports confirming that Nigerian nationals have died in the conflict after joining Russian forces. Ukrainian intelligence sources indicated that the bodies of two Nigerians were recovered in the Luhansk region of eastern Ukraine after they had signed military contracts. Reports suggest they may not have received adequate military training before being deployed.

Nigerian authorities say these recruitment schemes often rely on attractive promises, including high salaries, security-related jobs, or even fast-tracked citizenship. Victims allegedly discover only later that they have been enlisted into active combat roles. The government stressed that such recruitment efforts are illegal and extremely dangerous, urging citizens to exercise maximum caution.

The Russian ambassador to Nigeria has denied the existence of any state-sponsored recruitment program targeting Nigerian citizens. He stated that if such recruitment activities are taking place, they would not be authorized by the Russian government but rather carried out by independent actors operating unlawfully.

Nigeria’s government has advised citizens to verify any overseas job offer or travel opportunity with the appropriate authorities before making commitments. It also warned that participation in foreign armed conflicts without proper legal authorization could expose individuals to severe legal and security consequences.

Officials are calling for increased public awareness, urging families, community leaders, and educational institutions to sensitize young people about the risks associated with fraudulent recruiters. The issue has gained significant attention on social media, heightening concerns among families across the country.