Ukraine Discloses Identities of Nigerians Killed in Russian Service
Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate has publicly identified two Nigerian citizens who lost their lives while serving with Russian military forces in the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine. According to an official statement released on Thursday, February 12, the individuals, Hamzat Kazeen Kolawole and Mbah Stephen Udoka, were killed during a drone strike in the Luhansk region in late November of the previous year.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The intelligence report, titled "Nigerians in a meat assault, the number of identified dead Russian mercenaries from Africa is rising," detailed that both men were members of the 423rd Guards Motor Rifle Regiment of the Russian Armed Forces. They were reportedly eliminated while attempting to storm Ukrainian positions, without ever engaging in direct combat. The statement emphasized that Udoka received no military training before deployment, and Kolawole's training records were unverified, suggesting a lack of proper preparation.
Recruitment and Russian Denials
Ukraine's agency claimed that Kolawole and Udoka signed contracts with the Russian army in the latter half of 2025, with Kolawole joining on August 29 and Udoka on September 28. This disclosure has intensified scrutiny over alleged recruitment of Africans for the war, with media investigations pointing to deceptive job offers. In response, Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podyolyshev, firmly denied any government-backed recruitment program, stating that any illegal recruitment activities are not connected to the Russian state.
Warnings and Broader Implications
The Ukrainian intelligence agency issued a stark warning to foreign nationals, advising against travel to Russia or accepting work offers there due to high risks of being forced into combat roles. As the war enters its third year, both sides continue to suffer heavy losses, drawing in foreign fighters amidst escalating tensions. This incident highlights the complex international dimensions of the conflict and raises concerns about the welfare and recruitment practices involving foreign citizens.
