Russia has rejected claims that it is running any government-supported programme to recruit Nigerians to fight in Ukraine. Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podyolyshev, said on Tuesday in Abuja that any recruitment activity, if it exists, is not linked to the Russian state. Reports and videos had suggested that some Nigerians and other Africans were …
Russia Denies Recruiting Nigerians for Ukraine War
Russia has rejected claims that it is running any government-supported programme to recruit Nigerians to fight in Ukraine.
Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podyolyshev, said on Tuesday in Abuja that any recruitment activity, if it exists, is not linked to the Russian state.
Reports and videos had suggested that some Nigerians and other Africans were recruited under the guise of security jobs in Russia and later deployed to the war front after brief training.
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Podyolyshev described such claims as false and stated, “If illegal organisations or individuals are recruiting Nigerians unlawfully, this is not connected with the Russian state.”
He added that Moscow is ready to investigate any credible information submitted to Russian law enforcement authorities.
Bilateral Cooperation and Security Ties
The ambassador highlighted ongoing discussions between Russia and Nigeria on defence cooperation, including arms supply and military training.
He noted that such partnerships aim to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to combat terrorism and piracy.
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Podyolyshev also called for enhanced economic engagement, pointing out that the last session of the Russia–Nigeria Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation took place about ten years ago.
He described Nigeria as a strategic partner in Africa, emphasizing its population, economic strength, and leadership role in ECOWAS and the African Union.
Education, Energy, and Future Partnerships
On education, the ambassador noted that thousands of Nigerians have studied in Russian universities in fields such as engineering and medicine, a practice that continues under state quotas.
He also disclosed ongoing energy projects, including plans for a nuclear science and technology centre in Nigeria.
Looking ahead, Podyolyshev described Nigeria as a potential global power, stressing that its resources, demography, and regional leadership position make it a key partner for Russia in a multipolar world.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
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