Six Nigerian nationals who spent nearly eight months in detention in the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire over alleged economic crimes are finally free, after Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in Abidjan secured their release through sustained engagement with Ivorian authorities.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the development on Friday, June 26, 2026, in a statement by spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa. The Nigerians had been in detention since October 2025.
According to the ministry, four of the six were released on June 22, 2026, with the remaining two following on June 23 — the result of continuous diplomatic and consular pressure coordinated by Nigeria's Embassy in Abidjan under Ambassador Nwabiola C. Ezenwa.
The embassy is credited with maintaining regular consular access to the detainees throughout their time in custody, monitoring their welfare, and holding ongoing discussions with the Ivorian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ivorian Ministry of Justice, and other relevant institutions.
Diplomatic Channels and Bilateral Relations Delivered the Outcome
The ministry was direct in its assessment of what made the release possible — not just Nigeria’s diplomatic efforts, but the cooperative response from the Ivorian government.
It expressed appreciation to the Government of Côte d’Ivoire, stating that the cordial bilateral relationship between both countries contributed significantly to resolving the case.
Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire maintain active economic and diplomatic ties, with thousands of Nigerians resident and working in the Francophone West African nation.
The ministry reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to Nigerians abroad.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria remains firmly committed to the protection of the rights, welfare and dignity of Nigerian citizens abroad,” the statement read.
It added that Nigeria’s diplomatic missions worldwide would continue to provide consular assistance and engage host governments through established channels.
“The Ministry wishes to reassure Nigerian nationals overseas that the welfare and protection of citizens remain a cardinal priority of Nigeria’s foreign policy,” it said.
The ministry also advised Nigerians travelling or residing abroad to respect the laws of their host countries and to maintain contact with the nearest Nigerian diplomatic or consular mission whenever the need arises.
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