Hundreds of Nigerians who besieged the Ukraine Embassy in Abuja to join the country’s fight against Russia are having another thought over the travel conditions.
About 115 young Nigerians had earlier this week stormed the Ukrainian embassy in response to President, Volodymyr Zelensky, call to people around the world to join the fight against Russia.
In a statement released last Sunday, the President accused the Russian army of killing civilians and praised Ukrainians for having the courage to defend themselves.
He said that the assault by Russia was not just “Russia’s invasion of Ukraine” but also the beginning of a war against democracy and basic human rights.
Zelensky had called on anyone who wished to join the defense of Ukraine, Europe and the world to come and fight side by side with Ukrainians.
Having initially thought that their travel arrangements would be handled by the European nation, these Nigerians signified their interest to join the war.
However, it was gathered that they have already ditched the idea after the Ukrainian embassy in Nigeria said they must be willing to provide $1,000 for ticket and visa.
In an interview with newsmen, on Thursday, the Second Secretary at the Ukrainian Embassy to Nigeria, Bohdan Soltys, confirmed that $1,000 would be needed by Nigerian volunteers.
The announcement did not go down well with the Nigerians who lamented that the price was too high.
“The $1,000 requirement is too high,” said Monday Adikwu, with number 96NA/41/2808, who was dismissed from the Nigerian Army for leaving his duty post to visit his pregnant wife without permission.
“They said we should provide evidence of military experience, passports and $1,000 for tickets and others. When I asked what the salary is, the guy first said $7,000 and later changed it to $3,300 per month. I showed him my military and training certificates.”
When asked why he wants to go to Ukraine, Adikwu said he needed money to take care of his family including six children.
He said, “I want to go to Ukraine because I am a military man. I fought in Liberia. I fought in Sierra Leone. I was part of the 33 Battalion. I was trained by Ukrainian soldiers when I was in the United Nations in Kosovo on how to shoot and drive APC tanks. I can drive it very well.
“So, when I heard about Ukraine and the way people are trooping in… I am a farmer. I don’t have anything. I am a fighter. They said they will pay us so I am ready to fight so that I can get paid and take care of my family. I will also bring glory to the name of Nigeria as a worthy ambassador.”
Adikwu, who was accompanied by other dismissed soldiers, said they were not afraid of Russian forces.
“We are not scared. It was David that killed Goliath with only a tool. So, I believe my going to Ukraine will give them victory
Another applicant, Nkem Ndueche, who is from Anambra State, said he was fluent in Russian having attended a Russian military academy in 2007, said he was willing to fight on the side of Ukraine.
Ndueche added that his wife was against him travelling to fight for Ukraine but he would travel nonetheless for the sake of honour
