The Ukrainian authorities have announced the elimination of a Nigerian, Ayebusiwa Olabode Victor, fighting as a mercenary for Russia. 

The Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, in a statement on Thursday, said “Ayebusiwa Olabode Victor, born on April 28, 1992, was eliminated in combat against the Defence Forces of Ukraine in Kharkiv region near the settlement of Hrafske.”

It added, “The mercenary was a resident of Ilutitun, Ondo State. His story is typical of many recruits: deception, promises of “easy money,” a week of training, deployment to the front line, and a rapid death.”

The Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence posted photos of slain Mr Victor in Russian army fatigue and a photo of his passport, stating that the slain Nigerian mercenary entered a contract with Russia despite official warning from the Nigerian government.

“Notably, Ayebusiwa Olabode Victor signed a contract in late February 2026 — just one week after Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs officially expressed serious concern on February 15 over cases of illegal recruitment of Nigerian citizens for participation in foreign-armed conflicts,” DIU said.

According to DIU, at least 215 Nigerians have signed contracts with the Russian ministry of defense, fighting as macenaries for Russia.

“The DIU calls on Nigerian citizens to resist kremlin recruiters, stop the recruitment of their compatriots into the criminal war against Ukraine,” Defence Intelligence of Ukraine stated.

In April, At least 16 Cameroonians serving as military mercenaries for Russia were killed in the warfront with Ukraine.