The Ukraine Defence Intelligence has reported the death of another Nigerian citizen, identified as Ayebusiwa Olabode Victor, who was allegedly killed while fighting alongside Russian forces in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
According to reports released by Ukrainian authorities, Victor was reportedly killed during combat operations in the Kharkiv region of eastern Ukraine. Officials claimed the Nigerian national had signed a military contract with the Russian Army before being deployed to the battlefield.
Reports further revealed that Victor was said to be from Ilutitun community in Ondo State, Nigeria. Ukrainian intelligence officials alleged that he died during heavy fighting near the village of Hrafske.
The incident has sparked fresh concerns over the increasing number of African nationals reportedly joining the Russian military amid the prolonged conflict. Ukrainian authorities claimed that recruitment agents have been targeting young Africans with promises of employment opportunities, financial rewards, and better living conditions abroad.
According to Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence, several Nigerians and other African nationals have allegedly been recruited through online platforms, including Facebook and WhatsApp, before being enlisted into Russian military operations.
The agency also alleged that more than 200 Nigerians may have signed military contracts with Russian forces since the war intensified, while some are reportedly missing or feared dead.
