Promises, War, and Loss: A Painful Lesson for Young Africans

According to Ukrainian Defence Intelligence, the bodies of two Nigerian nationals Hamzat Kazeem Kolawole and Mbah Stephen Udoka were recovered in the Luhansk region after they were reportedly serving with Russian forces.
The agency stated that both men signed contracts in 2025 with a Russian military unit and were deployed to the front lines. One of them was allegedly sent into combat just days after signing, with little or no formal training. They were killed in late November during an assault on Ukrainian positions. Kolawole is said to have left behind a wife and three children in Nigeria.
This tragedy raises heavy questions.
Why are young Africans being recruited into foreign wars?
What promises were made to them?
Did they fully understand the risks?
Across the continent, economic hardship, unemployment, and migration pressures are pushing many young people to take desperate chances. Some are lured by promises of good pay, legal status, or a “better future.” But stories like this show the heartbreaking reality: the cost can be irreversible.
No matter the politics of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the human toll continues to grow and it is not only Ukrainians and Russians paying the price. Families in Nigeria are now mourning too.
For migrants and newcomers everywhere, this is a sobering reminder:
Be careful of offers that seem too good to be true.
Verify recruitment claims.
Seek safe and legal pathways when pursuing opportunities abroad.
War does not discriminate. And too often, it is the vulnerable who are placed in the most dangerous positions.
My thoughts are with their families during this difficult time. May they find strength and comfort.