April 1, 2026 | News | SUNTV Global Channel
The Ukrainian government has intensified its international recruitment campaign, spotlighting a Nigerian drone pilot as part of efforts to attract foreign fighters into its military amid the ongoing war with Russia.
In a video released via the official recruitment platform, #JoinUArmy, a 34-year-old Nigerian identified as Amos Ndubuisi Ugwu, also known by his call-sign “Cobra,” showcased his experience on the battlefield while encouraging others to join Ukraine’s International Legion.
Ugwu, who hails from Southeast Nigeria, revealed that he is currently serving in the Ukrainian Army’s “Flash” Battalion under the 28th Brigade. As a trained drone operator, he plays a key role in modern warfare, piloting advanced unmanned aerial systems on the front lines.
“I have had extensive training, particularly on the Vampire drones, and the experience has been intense but rewarding,” he said in the video.
The drones he operates, known as “Vampire” systems, are locally developed hexacopters designed for night operations. They are capable of deploying thermal explosives on enemy targets, including armored vehicles and strategic positions.
The campaign comes as Ukraine seeks to reinforce its military ranks with skilled foreign volunteers, especially as the conflict stretches into another year with significant battlefield losses.
However, the development has raised concerns across Africa, including Nigeria, where authorities have repeatedly warned citizens against participating in foreign wars, either as mercenaries or volunteers.
SUNTV Global Channel gathered that several African countries have recorded troubling cases of citizens being lured into the war under false pretences.
In Zimbabwe, authorities confirmed the deaths of 15 nationals who were reportedly deceived by fraudulent recruitment agents promising lucrative jobs abroad. Many were allegedly coerced into active combat upon arrival, with their travel documents confiscated.
Zimbabwe’s Information Minister, Zhemu Soda, disclosed that efforts are ongoing to rescue at least 66 other citizens believed to still be trapped in the conflict zone.
Similar incidents have been reported in South Africa and Kenya, where dozens of individuals were recruited under the guise of security jobs, only to be deployed to the front lines. Some have reportedly been killed, injured, or remain missing.
Earlier reports also indicated that Nigerians have been recruited on both sides of the conflict. At least four Nigerians were said to have died while fighting for Russian forces, highlighting the growing risks tied to such engagements.
According to European Union officials, including Ambassador Gautier Mignot, the recruitment of Africans into the war is a dangerous trend that exploits vulnerable individuals seeking better opportunities.
SUNTV Global Channel reports that as the war continues, concerns are mounting over the increasing involvement of foreign nationals—particularly from Africa—in a conflict far removed from their home countries, raising ethical, legal, and humanitarian questions.
