‘Be Careful Not To Be Recruited Into Illegal Foreign Army’

Nigerians have been warned to be careful not to be recruited into any illegal foreign army under whatever guise.

The Federal Government gave the warning against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts around the globe with proxies for the combatants shopping for recruits under false pretences.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs decried the situation of luring some Nigerians with promises of lucrative jobs, educational opportunities and migration incentives, only to end up in combat zones.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses grave concern over the rising and alarming cases of Nigerian citizens being illegally recruited to participate in foreign armed conflicts,” the statement by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said.

“Recent media investigations and security reports indicate that Nigerian nationals were allegedly recruited under false pretences, including promises of lucrative employment, security jobs, educational opportunities, or migration incentives.

“In several instances, victims are reportedly compelled to sign contracts in foreign languages without adequate legal guidance, and their travel documents are allegedly confiscated upon arrival,” it stated.

According to the federal government, the tactics of the recruits include fronting tourism and other non-military visa opportunities.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria unequivocally warns all citizens against engaging in or accepting any offer that involves participation in foreign armed conflicts.

“Such actions not only endanger lives but may also violate Nigerian and international laws governing mercenary activities and foreign enlistment,” the ministry said.

Any Nigerians opting to participate in foreign conflicts without official government approval do so at their own risk, the statement warned.

“Nigerian missions abroad have also been directed to strengthen consular vigilance and provide timely advisory services to Nigerian nationals,” the statement added.

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Appealing to educational institutions, parents, guardians and community leaders to sensitise their wards against being recruited into such illegal foreign army under other guises, it advised prior verifications of seeming harmless opportunities before-hand.

It said the offer could come in the form of overseas employment or academic opportunities, advising them to be wary.

“Nigeria remains committed to safeguarding the welfare and dignity of its citizens at home and abroad and reiterates its position that Nigerian nationals must not be exploited or trafficked into foreign conflicts under any circumstances,” the statement added.