Russia Denies Recruiting Nigerians for Ukraine War, Reaffirms Military Ties
- Jermaine SanwoOlu.com
- 42 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Russia has denied claims that Nigerians are being recruited to fight in the ongoing war in Ukraine, describing such reports as false and unsupported by the Russian government. The denial was issued by the Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podyelyshev, during a media briefing held in Abuja on Tuesday.
Addressing questions from journalists, the ambassador stated that there is no state-backed programme targeting Nigerians for military service in Ukraine. He maintained that any alleged recruitment activities involving Nigerians are not sanctioned by the Russian authorities.
Podyelyshev clarified that if individuals or groups are illegally attempting to recruit Nigerians, such actions are outside Russia’s official framework. He added that the Russian government is open to receiving credible information that could be forwarded to its law enforcement agencies for investigation.
Beyond the controversy, the ambassador used the briefing to outline areas of ongoing and proposed military cooperation between Russia and Nigeria. These include discussions on military training, technical assistance, and the possible supply of defence equipment, noting that some initiatives are already underway.
He described Nigeria as a strategic partner for Russia in Africa, stressing that bilateral cooperation with Nigeria plays a significant role in shaping Russia’s engagement in West Africa. According to him, Nigeria’s position makes it central to regional stability and development efforts
On international affairs, Podyelyshev reiterated Russia’s commitment to a multipolar global order, respect for national sovereignty, and opposition to external interference in the internal affairs of states. He also expressed support for African-led solutions to the continent’s challenges.
The ambassador further highlighted expanding economic and educational cooperation between both countries, including plans for a Centre for Nuclear Science and Technology in Nigeria and increased scholarship opportunities for Nigerian students in Russian universities, underscoring a shared commitment to long-term strategic partnership.
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