Six Nigerians who had been detained in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire since October 2025 over alleged economic crimes have regained their freedom following sustained diplomatic and consular efforts by the Nigerian government.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Friday in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, that four of the detainees were released on Monday, June 22, 2026, while the remaining two regained their freedom on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
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 praised the Nigerian Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Nwabiola Ezenwa, and staff of the embassy for their professionalism, commitment and tireless diplomatic efforts, which led to the successful resolution of the matter.
“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 statement said.
The ministry also expressed appreciation to the Government of Côte d’Ivoire for its cooperation in resolving the matter, noting that the cordial relations between both countries, built on mutual respect, friendship and regional solidarity, contributed significantly to the positive outcome.
Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad, the ministry said it would continue to provide consular assistance through its diplomatic missions and engage host governments through established diplomatic channels to safeguard the interests of Nigerians.
“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,” the statement added.
It urged Nigerians travelling or residing abroad to obey the laws of their host countries and maintain regular contact with the nearest Nigerian diplomatic or consular mission to facilitate assistance whenever necessary.
