The Nigerian government has secured the release of six Nigerians who had been detained in Côte d’Ivoire since October 2025 over alleged economic offences.
According to the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, four of the detainees were freed on Monday, June 22, while the remaining two regained their liberty on Tuesday, June 23.
The ministry, in a statement on Friday, attributed the successful outcome to sustained diplomatic and consular engagements by the Nigerian Embassy in Abidjan with the relevant authorities in Côte d’Ivoire.
It also praised Nigeria’s Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Ambassador Nwabiola Ezenwa, and members of the embassy staff for their role in resolving the matter.
“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.
