Nigerian Govt secures release of six citizens detained in Côte d’Ivoire
The Federal Government of Nigeria announced the successful release of six citizens detained in Côte d’Ivoire over allegations related to economic crimes.
In a statement released on Friday, Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesman Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa detailed that the release followed months of diplomatic negotiations between Nigerian officials and Ivorian authorities. Four detainees were freed on June 22, 2026, while the remaining two were released the following day.
The ministry credited the Nigerian Embassy in Abidjan for its ongoing efforts during the detention period. Under the leadership of Ambassador Nwabiola C. Ezenwa, embassy officials maintained regular communication with key institutions in Côte d’Ivoire.
The Nigerian Government commended Ezenwa and his team for their dedication in resolving the matter and expressed gratitude to the Ivorian government for its cooperation throughout the diplomatic process.
Officials highlighted that the strong bilateral relations between Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire significantly contributed to the peaceful resolution of the situation.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and rights of Nigerians living abroad, stating, “The Federal Government of Nigeria remains firmly committed to the protection of the rights, welfare, and dignity of Nigerian citizens abroad.”
