Nigeria's foreign ministry has issued a stern warning to its citizens about the increasing incidences of illegal recruitment into foreign armed conflicts, particularly in light of recent reports concerning the Russian army's recruitment of Nigerians to fight in Ukraine. The warning, however, does not explicitly mention Russia, although it highlights the serious risks faced by Nigerians who fall victim to such scams. Reports claim that at least 36 Nigerians have been recruited, with five already confirmed dead in combat, raising urgent concerns about the safety and welfare of those misled into military service.

The foreign ministry's statement expressed deep concern over the recruitment tactics used, which have reportedly included coercion and misleading promises of lucrative military contracts. Many Nigerians have been manipulated into deploying to combat zones under false pretenses, finding themselves in life-threatening situations. This alarming situation follows a broader trend involving citizens from several African countries, including Kenya, who have been lured by similar deceptive promises of employment.

The implications of these recruitment scams are significant, not only for the individuals involved but also for Nigeria's international reputation and its relationships with foreign nations, particularly as it grapples with the consequences of its citizens being exploited in foreign conflicts. The Nigerian government aims to raise awareness and protect its citizens from falling prey to such unscrupulous recruitment practices, highlighting the need for heightened vigilance against misinformation and manipulation regarding military service abroad.