The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is pleased to announce the successful release of six Nigerian nationals who were detained by the authorities of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire since October 2025 for alleged economic crimes. The Ministry received official communications from the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Abidjan confirming that four of the detained Nigerians were released on Monday, 22 June 2026, while the remaining two regained their freedom on Tuesday, 23 June 2026, following sustained diplomatic and consular engagements undertaken by the Embassy with the relevant authorities of the Government of Côte d’Ivoire.
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 Ministry also expresses its profound appreciation to the Government of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire for the constructive cooperation extended to the Embassy in resolving the matter. The cordial relations between Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, founded on mutual respect, friendship and regional solidarity, greatly facilitated the positive outcome.
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 and encourages all Nigerians travelling or residing abroad to respect the laws of their host countries while maintaining close contact with the nearest Nigerian diplomatic or consular mission for easy coordination when the need arises.
Signed:
Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, anipr
Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja
Friday 26, June 2026
