Russia has dismissed claims that it is hiring Nigerians to fight in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The war, which began in February 2022, has been described as the largest conflict in Europe since World War II, with Russian forces occupying increasing parts of Ukrainian territory.
Reports last week claimed that four Nigerians—Adam Anas, Akinlawon Tunde Quyuum, Abugu Stanley Onyeka, and Balogun Ridwan Adisa—died on the frontlines after allegedly being recruited under the guise of “security jobs” and forced into combat after just three weeks of training. Sources suggested the men were promised a high salary and perks but were instead allegedly made to sign military contracts in Russian without legal assistance, with their passports confiscated.
Russia, however, has strongly denied any state-backed recruitment program targeting Nigerians. Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podyolyshev, stated in Abuja that if illegal recruiters exist, they operate independently of the Russian government. “There is no government-supported programme to recruit Nigerians to fight in Ukraine. If there are illegal organisations or individuals trying to recruit Nigerians by unlawful means, this is not connected with the Russian state,” he said.
The ambassador also questioned the accuracy of Western media reports, urging journalists to visit Russia for firsthand information. While acknowledging that some Nigerians may be present in the conflict zone, he emphasized that no official Russian policy directed their involvement.
Podyolyshev also highlighted opportunities for stronger economic collaboration between Russia and Nigeria, noting ongoing long-term projects, including nuclear energy cooperation, and praised Nigeria’s leadership role within ECOWAS and the African Union for regional stability.
The Russian government maintains that any alleged recruitment of Nigerians is not linked to official state policy and has offered to share intelligence with Russian law enforcement to investigate illegal activities.
