The Federal Government of Nigeria has warned citizens against enlisting to participate in foreign conflicts, citing growing reports of deceptive recruitment targeting Nigerians.
In a statement issued on Sunday by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said some Nigerians are being lured abroad with promises of lucrative jobs, security roles, education opportunities or fast-tracked migration, only to be coerced into military service.
According to the ministry, victims are often compelled to sign contracts written in foreign languages and transported to conflict zones, where their travel documents may be confiscated.
“We are deeply concerned about reports that some Nigerian citizens are being misled into participating in foreign armed conflicts,” the statement said, warning that such actions endanger lives and may violate Nigerian and international laws on mercenary activities.
The government noted that recruitment tactics frequently involve signing bonuses, high salary promises and even offers of foreign citizenship, with intermediaries arranging travel under tourist or non-military visas.
To address the threat, Nigerian diplomatic missions abroad have been directed to intensify consular monitoring and issue advisories to nationals, while authorities at home are collaborating with international partners to investigate suspected recruitment networks.
Ebienfa also urged families, community leaders and guardians to educate young Nigerians about the risks of deceptive overseas offers and to verify opportunities through official channels.
The ministry reiterated that Nigeria remains committed to protecting the welfare and dignity of its citizens, stressing that Nigerians must not be exploited or trafficked into foreign conflicts under any circumstance.