Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence has reported the death of another Nigerian national, Ayebusiwa Olabode Victor, allegedly killed while fighting alongside Russian forces in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
According to a statement released on Thursday by Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate and reported by Ukrinform, Victor, who was born on April 28, 1992, hailed from Ilutitun in Ondo State, Nigeria.
He was said to have died during combat operations in the Kharkiv region, near the settlement of Hrafske.
Ukrainian authorities revealed that Victor reportedly signed a mercenary contract in late February 2026—just days after Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a warning urging citizens to avoid illegal recruitment into foreign conflicts.
The agency alleged that many foreign nationals, including Nigerians, are being lured with promises of lucrative jobs and quick financial rewards, only to be deployed to the frontlines shortly after arriving in Russia.
Describing the pattern, the agency stated that recruits are often deceived with “easy money” offers, given minimal training, and quickly sent into active combat zones.
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Further claims suggest that recruitment networks operate through social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp, targeting vulnerable individuals across Africa.
Victims are reportedly issued visas and one-way tickets to Russia, but upon arrival, their passports are confiscated under the guise of processing
documentation. They are then allegedly left with limited options—either face deportation with debt, imprisonment, or enlist in the military.
The report estimates that at least 215 Nigerians may have signed contracts with the Russian Ministry of Defence, with about 25 reportedly dead or missing in action.
This latest development adds to growing concerns about the exploitation of African nationals in the conflict, as the war continues with no immediate resolution in sight.
The Nigerian government has consistently warned citizens against participating in foreign wars, emphasizing that Nigeria is not a party to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and highlighting the serious legal and security risks involved.
Authorities are urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and avoid falling victim to such recruitment schemes.
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