The Federal Government has raised alarm over the growing cases of Nigerian citizens being illegally recruited into foreign armed conflicts under deceptive arrangements, warning that such engagements endanger lives and may violate both national and international laws.
In a press statement issued on Sunday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government expressed grave concern over reports indicating that Nigerians are being lured abroad with false promises of lucrative employment, security jobs, educational opportunities, and migration incentives, only to be deployed to active combat zones.
According to the statement signed by the Ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, victims were allegedly misled into signing military service contracts after arriving in foreign countries, often without proper legal guidance. In several reported cases, recruits were compelled to sign documents written in foreign languages, while their travel documents were confiscated upon arrival.
The government disclosed that recruitment networks frequently operate through intermediaries who arrange travel under tourist or other non-military visa categories, masking the true intent of the trips. The schemes reportedly include attractive offers such as high monthly salaries, signing bonuses, and promises of accelerated citizenship to entice unsuspecting Nigerians.
The Federal Government unequivocally warned citizens against accepting any offer involving participation in foreign armed conflicts outside officially approved frameworks, stressing that individuals who engage in such activities do so at their own risk.
It further noted that efforts are underway to address the situation through collaboration with domestic and international partners aimed at investigating the development and strengthening public awareness on the dangers associated with illegal recruitment.
Nigerian diplomatic missions abroad have also been directed to enhance consular vigilance and provide timely advisory services to nationals, while parents, guardians, community leaders, and educational institutions were urged to educate young Nigerians on the risks of fraudulent overseas recruitment schemes.
Citizens were advised to verify all foreign employment and study opportunities through official government channels and promptly report suspicious recruitment activities to relevant authorities.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting Nigerians globally, the government stressed that citizens must not be exploited or trafficked into foreign conflicts under any circumstances.
