Six Nigerians freed after months in Ivorian prison

Six Nigerian citizens have regained their freedom after being detained in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire since October 2025 on allegations of economic crimes. Their release comes after sustained diplomatic and consular interventions by the Nigerian government.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the development on Friday, stating that four of the detainees were released on Monday, June 22, 2026, with the remaining two gaining their freedom the following day, June 23, 2026. The ministry attributed the successful resolution to persistent diplomatic and consular engagements between Nigeria's Embassy in Abidjan and the relevant Ivorian authorities.

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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.

Nigeria's Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Nwabiola Ezenwa, and the embassy staff were commended for their professionalism and tireless efforts. The ministry's statement highlighted the embassy's consistent consular access to the detainees, ensuring their welfare throughout their incarceration, and continuous engagement with the Ivorian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Justice to secure their release.

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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.

The Nigerian government also expressed gratitude to the Government of Côte d’Ivoire for its cooperation, noting that the strong bilateral relations between the two nations, founded on mutual respect and regional solidarity, played a significant role in the positive outcome. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated the Federal Government's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights, welfare, and dignity of Nigerian citizens abroad through its diplomatic missions worldwide.

Nigerians traveling or residing overseas were urged to adhere to the laws of their host countries and maintain regular contact with Nigerian diplomatic missions. The ministry assured citizens that the protection and welfare of Nigerians abroad remain a paramount priority of Nigeria's foreign policy.

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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.