Ukraine War: Shehu Sani Urges Nigerians Not to Join Russian Army

Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has cautioned Nigerians against enlisting in the Russian Army amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, warning that the conflict poses grave risks to foreign recruits.

Sani's appeal comes amid reports that some foreign nationals, including Africans, have been recruited to fight on behalf of Russia in exchange for promises of employment, financial rewards, or pathways to residency. He urged Nigerians to exercise caution and avoid being lured into a war that is not theirs.

According to the former lawmaker, no amount of financial incentive is worth risking one's life in a foreign conflict. He stressed that young Nigerians should seek legitimate opportunities for education, employment, and entrepreneurship rather than becoming involved in armed conflicts abroad.

The Russia-Ukraine war, which began in February 2022, has resulted in thousands of military and civilian casualties, widespread destruction, and the displacement of millions of people. The prolonged conflict continues to have significant humanitarian, economic, and geopolitical consequences.

Sani advised Nigerians to verify overseas job offers carefully, particularly those that involve military service or security-related roles. He warned that some recruitment schemes may expose applicants to life-threatening situations or violate international laws.

Security experts have also cautioned that participating in foreign armed conflicts can carry serious legal and personal consequences, depending on the circumstances and the laws of the countries involved.

As the war continues, observers have renewed calls for greater public awareness about the dangers of mercenary recruitment and deceptive overseas employment offers. They urged relevant government agencies to educate citizens on safe migration pathways and the risks associated with joining foreign military forces.

Shehu Sani's warning serves as a reminder for Nigerians, especially young people seeking opportunities abroad, to prioritise their safety and make informed decisions before accepting offers that could place their lives at risk.