Nigeria secures release of six detained in Côte d’Ivoire since 2025

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Bianca Ojukwu, Foreign Affairs Minister

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The Nigerian government has secured the release of six Nigerians who had been detained in Côte d’Ivoire since October 2025 over alleged economic offences.

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According to the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, four of the detainees were freed on Monday, June 22, while the remaining two regained their liberty on Tuesday, June 23.

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The ministry, in a statement on Friday, attributed the successful outcome to sustained diplomatic and consular engagements by the Nigerian Embassy in Abidjan with the relevant authorities in Côte d’Ivoire.

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It also praised Nigeria’s Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Ambassador Nwabiola Ezenwa, and members of the embassy staff for their role in resolving the matter.

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“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.

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“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 read.

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The ministry further expressed appreciation to the Government of Côte d’Ivoire for its cooperation, noting that the cordial ties between both countries played a significant role in achieving the release of the Nigerians.

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“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.

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“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.

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The ministry also urged Nigerians residing or travelling abroad to respect the laws of their host countries and maintain contact with the nearest Nigerian embassy or consulate whenever the need arises.

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