Nigerian Govt secures release of six citizens detained in Côte d’Ivoire

The Federal Government has secured the release of its six citizens who were detained in Côte d’Ivoire over allegations linked to economic crimes.

A statement by the spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, on Friday said the development followed months of sustained diplomatic engagement between Nigerian officials and authorities in Côte d’Ivoire.

The statement said that four of the detained Nigerians were released on June 22, 2026, while the remaining two regained freedom a day later on June 23, 2026.

According to the ministry, the successful resolution of the matter was largely due to consistent intervention by the Nigerian Embassy in Abidjan.

Under the leadership of Ambassador Nwabiola C. Ezenwa, the embassy, was said to have maintained regular contact with relevant institutions in Côte d’Ivoire throughout the detention period.

The Nigerian Government hailed Ezenwa and embassy officials for their commitment and persistence in handling the matter and also appreciated the government of Côte d’Ivoire for its cooperation during the diplomatic process.

The ministry noted that the strong bilateral relationship between Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire played a major role in resolving the issue peacefully.

Reaffirming its commitment to Nigerians living outside the country, the ministry said protecting citizens abroad remains a major priority of the Federal Government.

It stated that, “The Federal Government of Nigeria remains firmly committed to the protection of the rights, welfare and dignity of Nigerian citizens abroad.”