Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu.
Six Nigerians who had been detained in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire since October 2025 over alleged economic crimes have regained their freedom following sustained diplomatic and consular efforts by the Nigerian government.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Friday in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, that four of the detainees were released on Monday, June 22, 2026, while the remaining two regained their freedom on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
According to the ministry, the release followed sustained diplomatic and consular engagements by the Embassy of Nigeria in Abidjan with the relevant Ivorian authorities.
The ministry praised the Nigerian Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Nwabiola Ezenwa, and staff of the embassy for their professionalism, commitment and tireless diplomatic efforts, which led to the successful resolution of the matter.
