Young Nigerian women are being lured into Russia‘s war production efforts under the guise of education and employment opportunities. The “Alabuga Start” program, a recruitment initiative, promises attractive salaries and a chance at a better life, but in reality, these women are forced to assemble components for suicide drones used in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Amina, a 23-year-old Nigerian woman who spent six months in Alabuga, recounts her experience: “I thought I was going to study computer science… Instead, I spent 10 hours a day in factories handling chemicals and adhesives.” The working conditions are harsh, with long hours and exposure to toxic chemicals without proper protection.
The program’s true nature is shrouded in deception. When Nigeria’s ambassador to Russia, Professor Abdullahi Shehu, visited the facility in 2023, he was shown a curated version, unaware of the military components being produced. Russia’s actions have been described as a form of modern-day colonial exploitation, with African youth being used as affordable labor for Russia’s war machine.
The Reality of Life in Alabuga
Participants report receiving only a fraction of their promised wages, with deductions for accommodation, bus fares, and taxes. A Ugandan participant revealed that the working hours are longer than promised, and the payment is significantly less than the advertised $700 per month. They are also subjected to constant monitoring while living in hostels.
Nigeria’s Diplomatic Failure
The Nigerian government has been criticized for its slow response to the exploitation of its citizens. Dr. James Adewale, a policy analyst, argues that Nigeria needs a comprehensive overhaul of its labor migration approach, including stricter verification of foreign employment schemes and rapid response mechanisms to prevent exploitation.
Experts recommend immediate action, including establishing a task force to secure the return of Nigerians currently in Alabuga and launching an investigation into how the program gained official endorsements. Dr. Imole Philip, a national security analyst, notes that the exploitation of Nigerian youth is a direct challenge to Nigeria’s sovereignty and self-determination.
Conclusion
The plight of these young women demands a fundamental reconsideration of how Nigeria engages with foreign powers. As Amina puts it, “I don’t want anyone else to experience what I did. My government should have protected me. They should protect others now.” The Nigerian government must take immediate action to protect its citizens and assert its sovereignty in the face of exploitation.