Ukrainian Defence Intelligence has reported that another Nigerian, allegedly recruited to fight for Russia in the ongoing war with Ukraine, has died.
This highlights growing concerns about mercenary networks using social media to target Africans.
The man, Ayebusiwa Olabode Victor from Ondo State, was killed in combat near Hrafske in the Kharkiv region. Authorities said he signed a mercenary contract in late February 2026, just a week after Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned citizens not to join foreign conflicts illegally.
Ukrainian officials say that recruitment networks are now using platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp to attract foreign nationals by promising jobs and quick money.
Victims are reportedly given visas and one-way tickets to Moscow, but their passports are taken when they arrive.
Without jobs, valid visas, or a way to return home, recruits face tough choices: deportation with debt, imprisonment, or signing up with the Russian military.
Ukrainian intelligence described this pattern as typical: deception, promises of ‘easy money,’ a week of training, then deployment to the front and a quick death.
They said at least 215 Nigerians have signed contracts with Russia’s Ministry of Defence, and about 25 are already dead or missing in action.
The Nigerian government has repeatedly warned citizens not to get involved in foreign armed conflicts, emphasizing that Nigeria is not part of the Russia-Ukraine war.
Officials say that joining such conflicts can lead to legal and security problems.
Ukrainian authorities are urging Nigerians to resist recruitment efforts and report any suspicious contacts. They say this problem is part of a larger campaign of disinformation and exploitation aimed at vulnerable people across Africa.
