Russia vows probe if Nigerians are Illegally recruited for Ukraine war

The Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podyelyshev, has denied claims that Nigerians are being recruited to fight in the war in Ukraine.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, the ambassador said there is no official programme by the Russian government to recruit Nigerians for the war. He described the reports as misleading.

He said if any individuals are trying to recruit Nigerians to fight in Ukraine, they are acting illegally and are not connected to the Russian government. He added that any reliable information about such activities would be sent to Russian law enforcement authorities for investigation.

The ambassador explained that military cooperation between Russia and Nigeria is guided by official agreements. These agreements mainly cover military training and possible supply of equipment.

Podyelyshev described Nigeria as one of Russia’s most important partners in Africa. He said the relationship between the two countries influences Russia’s activities in West Africa.

He spoke during a diplomatic event titled “Russia in a Multipolar World Order: African Perspective,” held to mark Russia’s Diplomatic Service Day.

The ambassador also said Russia supports a global system based on international law, equal rights for all countries, and non-interference in internal affairs. He called for reforms in global institutions, including giving African countries more representation on the United Nations Security Council.

He added that cooperation between Russia and Nigeria is growing in areas such as defence, education, energy, healthcare, and security.

He also mentioned plans to establish a Centre for Nuclear Science and Technology in Nigeria and to increase scholarships for Nigerian students to study in Russia.