Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Federal Government has raised alarm over what it describes as a growing and disturbing trend of Nigerian citizens being illegally recruited into foreign armed conflicts under false pretences.
Kimiebi ebienfa, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Spokesperson, said in a statement that the Nigerian government expressed “grave concern” over recent reports indicating that some Nigerians were lured abroad with promises of lucrative jobs, security contracts, educational opportunities and migration incentives, only to be deployed to combat zones.
The statement said victims were misled into signing military service contracts, often without proper legal guidance.
“Recent media investigations and security reports indicate that Nigerian nationals were allegedly recruited under false pretences,” the statement said.
According to the government, recruitment tactics include offers of high monthly salaries, signing bonuses, and fast-track foreign citizenship. In some cases, victims were reportedly compelled to sign documents written in foreign languages, while their travel documents were confiscated upon arrival.
Authorities also noted the alleged involvement of intermediaries who arranged travel under tourist or other non-military visa categories.
The Federal Government warned that participation in foreign armed conflicts outside official state frameworks could violate both Nigerian and international laws regulating mercenary activities.
“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 stressed.
It added that individuals who choose to participate in such activities “do so at their own risk”.
To address the situation, the Ministry said it is working with domestic and international partners to investigate the developments and intensify public awareness campaigns.
Nigerian diplomatic missions abroad have also been directed to strengthen consular vigilance and provide advisory services to citizens.
The government urged parents, guardians, community leaders, and educational institutions to sensitize young Nigerians to the dangers of deceptive recruitment schemes.
Citizens were advised to verify overseas job or study offers through official government channels and report suspicious activities to relevant authorities.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting Nigerians at home and abroad, the Ministry declared that Nigerian nationals “must not be exploited or trafficked into foreign conflicts under any circumstances”.
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