By Ebi Kesiena
The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a strong warning against illegal recruitment of its citizens into foreign armed conflicts, expressing deep concern over what it described as a disturbing rise in such cases.
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, conveyed the government’s position in a statement released on Sunday by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The minister said recent media investigations and security reports revealed that some Nigerian citizens were being lured abroad under false pretences and subsequently deployed to conflict zones.
According to Tuggar, unsuspecting Nigerians have allegedly been enticed with promises of lucrative employment, private security jobs, educational opportunities, and even migration incentives, only to find themselves coerced into signing military service contracts upon arrival in foreign countries.
“Several Nigerians who have fallen victim to such unfortunate situations were deployed to combat zones after being misled and pressured into signing military service agreements,” the minister stated.
He disclosed that deceptive recruitment tactics reportedly include offers of high monthly salaries, attractive signing bonuses, and fast-tracked citizenship processes. In many instances, victims are said to have been compelled to sign contracts written in foreign languages without proper legal interpretation or guidance.
The minister further revealed that some of the affected individuals allegedly had their travel documents confiscated upon arrival, leaving them stranded and vulnerable. Reports also point to the involvement of intermediaries and agents who facilitate travel arrangements under tourist or other non-military visa categories, concealing the true purpose of the journey.
Describing the trend as alarming, Tuggar said the Federal Government unequivocally warns citizens against engaging in, or accepting, any offer that involves participation in foreign armed conflicts outside officially sanctioned frameworks.
He stressed that such actions not only endanger lives but may also contravene Nigerian and international laws regulating mercenary activities and foreign enlistment.
“The Ministry wishes to emphasise that Nigerians who choose to participate in foreign conflicts outside approved governmental frameworks do so at their own risk,” he cautioned.
In response to the development, the minister said the government is working with relevant domestic and international partners to investigate the matter and curb the activities of those behind the illegal recruitment schemes. He added that Nigerian missions abroad have been directed to heighten consular vigilance and provide timely advisory services to citizens.
Tuggar also called on parents, guardians, community leaders, and educational institutions to intensify awareness campaigns aimed at educating young Nigerians about the grave risks associated with deceptive foreign recruitment offers.
He urged citizens to verify all overseas employment and study opportunities through official government channels and to promptly report any suspicious recruitment activities to appropriate authorities.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting its nationals, the minister stated that Nigeria remains resolute in safeguarding the welfare and dignity of its citizens both at home and abroad.
“Nigerian nationals must not be exploited or trafficked into foreign conflicts under any circumstances,” he declared.
