Nigeria Secures Release of Six Citizens Detained in Côte d’Ivoire
Oru Leonard
The Federal Government has secured the release of six Nigerian nationals who had been detained in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire since October 2025 over alleged economic crimes, following sustained diplomatic and consular engagements.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, the Ministry disclosed that four of the detainees were released on Monday, June 22, 2026, while the remaining two regained their freedom on Tuesday, June 23, 2026. The development was confirmed through official communications from the Nigerian Embassy in Abidjan.
The Ministry attributed the successful outcome to the relentless efforts of Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in Côte d’Ivoire, led by Ambassador Nwabiola C. Ezenwa. It praised the Ambassador and embassy staff for their professionalism, dedication and consistent engagement with the Ivorian authorities throughout the period of detention.
According to the statement, the Embassy maintained regular consular access to the detained Nigerians, monitored their welfare and held continuous consultations with Côte d’Ivoire’s Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Justice, as well as other relevant institutions, to facilitate their release.
The Ministry also expressed appreciation to the Government of Côte d’Ivoire for its cooperation and constructive engagement, noting that the longstanding cordial relations between both countries, built on mutual respect, friendship and regional solidarity, contributed significantly to the positive resolution of the matter.
Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting the rights, welfare and dignity of Nigerians abroad, the Ministry said it would continue to work through its diplomatic missions worldwide to provide consular assistance and engage host governments in safeguarding the interests of Nigerian citizens.
It further urged Nigerians living or travelling abroad to respect the laws of their host countries and maintain close contact with the nearest Nigerian diplomatic or consular mission to ensure prompt assistance whenever necessary.
