The Federal Government has issued a strong warning to Nigerians against recruitment schemes designed to lure citizens into participating in foreign armed conflicts. This follows reports that unsuspecting Nigerians are being deceived with offers of high-paying jobs, private security roles, educational opportunities, or promises of fast-tracked migration abroad.
In a statement released on Sunday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government revealed that many victims are coerced into signing military service contracts written in foreign languages they do not fully understand. Upon arrival in conflict zones, their travel documents are often confiscated, leaving them stranded, exposed, and unable to seek help.
According to the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the Federal Government is deeply concerned about the growing trend, noting that such activities pose serious risks to lives and may violate both Nigerian and international laws on mercenary involvement. The statement stressed that participation in foreign wars under false pretences carries grave legal, physical, and psychological consequences.
To address the threat, the Federal Government said it is taking concrete steps to counter the recruitment networks. Nigerian diplomatic missions abroad have been directed to strengthen consular vigilance, closely monitor suspicious activities, and issue timely advisories to Nigerians within their jurisdictions. Domestically, relevant authorities are working in collaboration with international partners to investigate and dismantle the syndicates behind these operations.
The government also appealed to parents, guardians, and community leaders to take an active role in educating young Nigerians about the dangers of deceptive foreign recruitment schemes. Citizens were advised to thoroughly verify overseas job or travel offers through official channels and to report any suspicious approaches to security agencies or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Reaffirming its commitment to the safety of Nigerians at home and abroad, the Federal Government warned that no citizen should endanger their life or freedom by falling victim to false promises linked to foreign conflicts.
