FG Intervention Leads to Freedom for Six Nigerians Held in Côte d’Ivoire

The Federal Government's diplomatic intervention has successfully secured the release of six Nigerian citizens who had been held in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire since October 2025. These individuals were initially detained on allegations of economic crimes. This development was announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, in a statement issued on Friday.

The Ministry further detailed that four of the six Nigerians were set free on Monday, June 22, with the remaining two gaining their liberty on Tuesday, June 23. Their release, the Ministry explained, was the result of continuous diplomatic and consular efforts by the Nigerian Embassy in Abidjan, engaging persistently with the appropriate Ivorian authorities.

A commendation was extended by the Ministry to His Excellency Ambassador Nwabiola Ezenwa, Nigeria's Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, along with the entire staff of the embassy, for their dedication and hard work in facilitating the detainees' freedom.

The official statement highlighted, “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.” It further stated that “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.”

Furthermore, appreciation was expressed to the Government of Côte d’Ivoire for its collaborative spirit, with the Ministry noting that the strong bilateral ties between Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire played a crucial role in the successful resolution of this issue.

The statement reiterated the Federal Government's commitment, asserting, “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.” It concluded by reassuring, “The Ministry wishes to reassure Nigerian nationals overseas that the welfare and protection of citizens remain a cardinal priority of Nigeria’s foreign policy.”

Finally, the Ministry issued an advisory to all Nigerians residing or traveling internationally, urging them to adhere strictly to the laws of their host nations and to always keep in touch with the closest Nigerian diplomatic mission when circumstances demand.