By Blessing Ordia
ABUJA, Nigeria (chatnewstv.com) — Russia’s ambassador to Nigeria on Tuesday dismissed reports alleging that Nigerians are being recruited to fight in the war in Ukraine, describing the claims as misleading and unconnected to the Russian government.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Ambassador Andrey Podyelyshev said there is no state-backed programme involving Nigerian citizens in the conflict and stressed that any such recruitment would be illegal.
“If some illegal individuals are trying to recruit Nigerians to fight in Ukraine, this is not connected with the Russian state,” Podyelyshev said. He added that any credible information on such activities would be forwarded to Russian law enforcement authorities for investigation.
The ambassador said official military cooperation between Russia and Nigeria is governed strictly by bilateral agreements, particularly in military-technical cooperation, training and potential equipment supply.
Podyelyshev described Nigeria as one of Russia’s most important partners in Africa, noting that relations with Abuja play a key role in shaping Moscow’s broader engagement across West Africa.
His remarks were delivered during a diplomatic briefing titled “Russia in a Multipolar World Order: African Perspective,” organised to mark Russia’s Diplomatic Service Day.
The envoy reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to a multipolar global order based on international law, sovereign equality and non-interference in domestic affairs. He also called for reforms of global institutions, including expanded African representation on the United Nations Security Council.
Podyelyshev said Nigeria remains a strategic partner, citing growing cooperation in defence, education, energy, healthcare and security. He referenced plans for a Centre for Nuclear Science and Technology in Nigeria, as well as expanded scholarship opportunities for Nigerian students in Russia.
The denial follows recent reports by some African nationals, including Nigerians, alleging trafficking and forced recruitment linked to the Russia–Ukraine conflict.
