The Federal Government has announced the release of six Nigerian nationals who were detained in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire since October 2025 over alleged economic crimes.
In a statement, No: MFA/PR/2026/102, signed on Friday, June 26, 2026 by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government said the release followed sustained diplomatic and consular engagement by the Nigerian Embassy in Abidjan.
According to the Ministry, the Embassy in Abidjan confirmed that four of the detained Nigerians were freed on Monday, June 22, 2026, while the remaining two were released on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
The Embassy said it maintained regular consular access to the detainees, monitored their welfare throughout detention, and engaged the Ivorian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Justice, and other relevant institutions to secure their release.
The Ministry commended Nigeria’s Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, His Excellency Ambassador Nwabiola C. Ezenwa, and the entire Embassy staff for their “steadfast commitment, professionalism and tireless diplomatic efforts.”
It also expressed appreciation to the Government of Côte d’Ivoire for its cooperation, noting that “cordial relations between Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, founded on mutual respect, friendship and regional solidarity, greatly facilitated the positive outcome.”
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights, welfare, and dignity of Nigerians abroad. The Ministry said it will continue to provide consular assistance and engage host governments through diplomatic channels.
It also urged Nigerians traveling or residing overseas to respect the laws of their host countries and to stay in close contact with the nearest Nigerian diplomatic or consular mission for coordination when needed.
