Ukraine Discloses Identities of Two Nigerians Fighting for Russia in Luhansk Region

Ukraine disclosed the identities of two Nigerians, Hamzat Kazeen Kolawol and Mbah Stephen Udoka, who were allegedly fighting on the side of Russia in the Luhansk region. Kolawol and Udoka were soldiers serving in the 423rd Guard Motor Rifle Regiment and the 4th Guard Kantemirovskaya Tank Division, respectively.

They had signed contracts with the Russian army in the second half of 2025. Udoka, who was reportedly not trained prior to his posting, was assigned to a unit temporarily occupying Ukrainian territory.

Ukrainian Defense Intelligence revealed that the Nigerians were killed in late November during a drone strike while attempting a raid on Ukrainian positions. The intelligence agency warned of the real risk of forced suicide assault units from Russia on Ukrainian soil.