A Nigerian man allegedly deceived into joining the Russian military has appealed to the Federal Government of Nigeria for urgent repatriation, raising fresh concerns about fraudulent overseas job recruitment.
The man, identified as Victor, revealed that he was lured to Russia with promises of a well-paying job opportunity. According to his account, he was assured of legitimate employment but was instead forced into combat operations upon arrival.
Victor explained that he had no prior knowledge that the offer involved military service or participation in any armed conflict. He described the experience as traumatic and deceptive, stating that he was coerced into fighting against his will.
After realizing the true nature of the situation, he reportedly made several attempts to seek help locally but was unsuccessful. This prompted his public appeal to the Nigerian government to intervene and facilitate his safe return home.
The incident underscores the increasing risks associated with unverified foreign job offers, particularly those advertised online. Experts warn that many desperate job seekers fall victim to international recruitment scams that exploit economic hardship and unemployment.
Victor has urged Nigerians to thoroughly verify overseas employment opportunities and to use only recognized travel and recruitment agencies when seeking work abroad.
As global conflicts continue to create complex migration risks, travel safety advocates emphasize the importance of due diligence, proper documentation, and consultation with official Nigerian diplomatic channels before accepting any foreign employment contract.
The Federal Government is yet to issue an official statement on the matter at the time of this report.
For Nigerians considering work opportunities abroad, this case serves as a cautionary reminder: always confirm the legitimacy of recruiters, verify visa categories, and seek professional travel advisory guidance to avoid life-threatening situations.