Nigeria Secures Release of Six Citizens Detained in Côte d’Ivoire After Months of Diplomatic Efforts

The Federal Government has secured the release of six Nigerians who had been detained in Côte d’Ivoire since October 2025 over alleged economic crimes, following months of sustained diplomatic engagement between Nigerian and Ivorian authorities.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the development in a statement issued on Friday by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, describing the release as a significant outcome of coordinated diplomatic and consular efforts led by the Nigerian Embassy in Abidjan.

According to the ministry, four of the detainees regained their freedom on June 22, while the remaining two were released the following day after prolonged discussions with relevant authorities in Côte d’Ivoire.

The identities of the six Nigerians and the specific economic offences for which they were detained were not disclosed.

The ministry said the successful intervention followed continuous engagement with key institutions in Côte d’Ivoire, including the country's Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Justice, as well as other relevant government agencies.

Throughout the detention period, officials of the Nigerian Embassy maintained regular consular access to the detainees, monitored their welfare and pursued diplomatic channels to facilitate their release.

The Ministry disclosed that the development underscores the Federal Government's commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerians living abroad.

"The successful release of the six Nigerians reflects the effectiveness of sustained diplomatic engagement and underscores the government's commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of its citizens abroad," the ministry stated.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs praised Nigeria's Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Nwabiola Ezenwa, alongside officials of the Nigerian Embassy in Abidjan, for their professionalism, persistence and dedication throughout the negotiations.

It also expressed appreciation to the Government of Côte d’Ivoire for its cooperation, noting that the cordial bilateral relationship between both West African nations played an important role in resolving the matter.

The ministry reiterated that safeguarding the interests and welfare of Nigerians overseas remains a central pillar of the country's foreign policy.

It assured that Nigerian diplomatic missions across the world would continue to provide consular assistance and engage host governments whenever the rights and welfare of Nigerian citizens require intervention.

At the same time, the ministry urged Nigerians living, working or travelling abroad to respect the laws of their host countries and maintain regular contact with the nearest Nigerian embassy or consulate to enable prompt assistance whenever necessary.

The latest development reinforces Nigeria's commitment to using diplomacy and consular engagement to protect its citizens overseas while strengthening bilateral relations with partner countries.