Nigerian Killed Fighting for Russian Forces in Ukraine

Ayebusiwa Olabod Victor, born on April 28, 1992, in Ilutitun, Ondo State, was reported killed in the Kharkiv region near the settlement of Hrafsk during combat operations involving Ukrainian troops. According to the Ukrainian National News Agency, Victor signed a mercenary contract in late February 2026.

This incident follows a warning from Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which cautioned citizens against illegal recruitment for foreign conflicts, highlighting the deceptive promises of quick financial gain that lure individuals into such situations. Ukrainian intelligence agencies reported that Victor was part of a larger pattern, with at least 215 Nigerians having signed contracts with the Russian Ministry of Defense, of which 25 are either dead or missing in action.

The Ukrainian authorities urged Nigerians to resist recruitment attempts and avoid being drawn into the conflict, reiterating that Nigeria is not a participant in the Russia-Ukraine war.