Figures cited by The Guardian show a growing concern regarding the welfare of Nigerians abroad, as the Foundation for Peace Professionals (PeacePro) has formally asked the Russian Embassy to clarify reports of “deceptive recruitment.” The group alleges that Nigerian civilians, traveling on tourist or work visas, are being coerced into military service under the guise of technical employment contracts.
The call for an investigation follows accounts from individuals who claimed they were denied access to translators before being forced to sign military documents. The Nigerian government is under increasing pressure to provide a framework for protecting its citizens from such exploitation in conflict zones.
Both Daily Trust and Sahara Reporters have tracked similar allegations. Daily Trust noted that “families of missing Nigerians in Eastern Europe are crying for help,” while Sahara Reporters highlighted “the lack of consular support for Nigerians in Russia.” Daily Trust stated, “The government must act to prevent our youths from becoming mercenaries,” and Sahara Reporters added, “Legal experts are calling it a gross violation of international law.”
Echotitbits take: This is a sensitive diplomatic “landmine.” Nigeria wants to maintain good relations with Russia, but the human rights implications are too large to ignore. Watch for a formal statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as pressure from the Diaspora Affairs community builds.
Source: FaceBook – https://web.facebook.com/foreignaffairsnigeria/posts/federal-government-warns-against-illegal-recruitment-of-nigerian-citizens-into-f/1210308027943168/?_rdc=1&_rdr#, February 18, 2026
Photo credit: FaceBook
