The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to Nigerian citizens regarding a surge in the illegal recruitment of nationals to fight in foreign armed conflicts under deceptive pretenses.
In a press statement released Sunday (No: MFA/PS/2026/016), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed “grave concern” over reports that Nigerians are being lured into combat zones with false promises of lucrative security jobs, educational opportunities, and fast-tracked citizenship.
Deceptive Tactics Uncovered
According to the Ministry, investigations reveal that recruitment agents often use “lucrative employment” and high monthly signing bonuses to entice victims. Once abroad, many Nigerians are reportedly coerced into signing military contracts in foreign languages without legal counsel.
The Ministry further highlighted several alarming tactics used by intermediaries:
- Confiscation of Documents: Travel documents are allegedly seized upon arrival in foreign territories.
- Visa Fraud: Agents facilitate travel using tourist or non-military visa categories to bypass exit screenings.
- Misleading Contracts: Victims are often deployed to active combat zones after being misled about the nature of their employment.
Legal and Safety Risks
The Federal Government emphasized that participating in such conflicts may violate both Nigerian and international laws concerning mercenary activities. The spokesperson for the Ministry, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, noted that citizens who engage in foreign wars outside of official government frameworks do so at their own peril.
”The Federal Government of Nigeria unequivocally warns all citizens against engaging in or accepting any offer that involves participation in foreign armed conflicts,” the statement read. “Such actions not only endanger lives but may also violate Nigerian and international laws.”
Government Response
In response to the trend, the Ministry has directed Nigerian Missions abroad to increase consular vigilance. Domestically, the government is collaborating with international partners to investigate these recruitment networks and heighten public awareness.
The Ministry urged parents, community leaders, and educational institutions to sensitize youth to the risks of these schemes. Citizens are advised to verify all overseas opportunities through official government channels and report suspicious agents to the authorities.
