EU Envoy Raises Alarm Over Alleged Recruitment of Nigerians, Other Africans for Russia-Ukraine War
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The European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, has voiced concern over reports that Russia is recruiting Nigerians and other Africans to support its military campaign in Ukraine. He described the development as troubling and exploitative.
Speaking on Channels Television, the envoy said civil society organisations have documented cases of Africans being enticed with promises of employment, only to be drawn into Russia’s war effort. According to him, some were offered civilian jobs but later redirected to military-related duties.
He stated that women were reportedly assigned to work in military production facilities, while men were sent to the front lines. Mignot characterised the practice as unfair to individuals with no direct link to the conflict and warned that vulnerable job seekers are being targeted.
The ambassador suggested that Russia’s outreach beyond its borders signals growing pressure on its military manpower. He said some African recruits have already been captured by Ukrainian forces, underscoring the risks involved.
He also noted that African governments are beginning to respond to the issue. Nigeria, he said, has acknowledged concerns about its citizens being recruited into foreign conflicts, although official statements have not directly named Russia.
Rejecting claims that Russia is steadily gaining ground in the war, Mignot described the battlefield situation as largely at a standstill. He added that Ukrainian forces have recently regained portions of territory and argued that a lasting resolution will require diplomatic engagement rather than continued fighting.
The conflict, which began in 2022 after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a military offensive against Ukraine, has resulted in heavy casualties and widespread displacement. Moscow has denied allegations that it is recruiting Africans for combat, insisting that such claims are unfounded.
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