Russia Denies Recruiting Nigerians for Ukraine War
The Russian government has dismissed allegations that it is recruiting Nigerian citizens to fight in its ongoing war in Ukraine, describing the claims as baseless and disconnected from official policy.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Russian Ambassador to Nigeria Andrey Podyelyshev said Moscow has no state-run programme enlisting Nigerians for military operations abroad. He urged the public to disregard recent social media reports and news coverage suggesting such efforts were underway.
“These claims are unfounded and not connected to the Russian government,” Podyelyshev said. He added that any illegal recruitment activity, if proven, would be a matter for Russian law enforcement authorities to address.
The ambassador’s remarks come amid growing international scrutiny over foreign combatants reportedly involved in the Ukraine conflict. While unverified reports have suggested the presence of African nationals on both sides of the war, Russian officials have repeatedly denied state involvement in such recruitment.
During the briefing, Podyelyshev sought to redirect attention to the broader diplomatic relationship between Russia and Nigeria. He highlighted ongoing cooperation in military affairs, education, and economic development as part of long-standing bilateral ties.
The denial underscores Moscow’s effort to distance itself from unofficial military mobilisation abroad, even as the war in Ukraine continues into its third year.
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