Russia Denies Recruiting Nigerians for Ukraine War, Ambassador Calls for Stronger Nigeria-Russia Economic Relations

Russia has denied accusations of recruiting Nigerians to participate in the conflict in Ukraine. The Russian ambassador to Nigeria, Andrei Podyolyshev, dismissed reports of Nigerian involvement in the war, stating that the Russian government will investigate the credibility of the information.

He highlighted the importance of enhancing economic ties between Nigeria and Russia, referencing past collaborations in various sectors. The denial comes amid claims that Nigerians were lured to Russia with promises of lucrative salaries but were allegedly coerced into military service upon arrival, without proper training or legal representation.

The allegations included reports of Nigerian passports being confiscated to prevent escape. Podyolyshev emphasized that there is no official Russian policy supporting the recruitment of Nigerians for the conflict in Ukraine.