Russia dismisses claims of recruiting Nigerians for Ukraine conflict

Russia has denied allegations of recruiting Nigerians to fight in the Ukraine conflict.

According to Andrey Podyelyshev, the Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, there is no government-backed programme to recruit Nigerians for the war. 

The Russian ambassador clarified the situation on Tuesday during a press briefing in Abuja to discuss the ongoing and planned military and economic cooperation between Russia and Nigeria.

He stated that if any illegal recruitment is happening, it’s not to the Russian state, and they’re willing to investigate and provide information to Russian law enforcement.

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Replying to questions from journalists, Ambassador Podyelyshev said: “If some illegal people are trying to recruit Nigerians to fight in Ukraine, this is not connected with the Russian state. If anybody has information, we are ready to send it to Russian law enforcement authorities for investigation.”

The ambassador emphasised that Russia and Nigeria have existing agreements on military-technical cooperation, including training Nigerian military personnel and possible supply of Russian equipment, adding that “some projects have already started, some are under consideration. We are ready to develop cooperation as much as the Nigerian side wishes.”

He further stressed that Nigeria remains a key partner for Russia in Africa, saying: “Cooperation with Nigeria largely shapes our prospects in West Africa. Nigeria is a potential anchor of regional stability and development.”

Ambassador Podyelyshev further reaffirmed Russia’s stance on global issues, advocating for a multipolar world order, respect for sovereignty, and diversity, while opposing unilateral dominance.

He also highlighted Russia’s support for African solutions to African problems and rejection of external coercion in other states’ internal affairs.