Following sustained diplomatic and consular efforts by the Nigerian government, six Nigerians who had been detained in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire since October 2025 over alleged economic crimes have regained their freedom.
Kimiebi Ebienfa, the official spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs made this disclosure in an official statement released on Friday.
According to the ministry, the release followed sustained diplomatic and consular engagements by the Embassy of Nigeria in Abidjan with the relevant Ivorian authorities.
“The Ministry commends the Ambassador of Nigeria to Côte d’Ivoire, His Excellency, Ambassador Nwabiola C. Ezenwa, and the entire staff of the Embassy for their steadfast commitment, professionalism and tireless diplomatic efforts which culminated in the successful resolution of the matter.
“The Embassy maintained regular consular access to the detained Nigerians, ensured their welfare throughout their detention, and engaged consistently with the Ivorian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Justice, and other relevant institutions to secure their release.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria remains firmly committed to the protection of the rights, welfare and dignity of Nigerian citizens abroad. Through its diplomatic missions worldwide, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to provide consular assistance and engage host governments through established diplomatic channels to safeguard the interests of Nigerians wherever they may reside.
“The Ministry wishes to reassure Nigerian nationals overseas that the welfare and protection of citizens remain a cardinal priority of Nigeria’s foreign policy.
According to the statement, four of the detainees were released on Monday, June 22, 2026, while the remaining two regained their freedom on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
