Nigeria secures release of six citizens detained in Côte d’Ivoire
The Federal Government announced on Friday that six Nigerians detained in Côte d’Ivoire since October 2025 on alleged economic crimes have been released. Four of the detainees regained their freedom on 22 June, and the remaining two were freed a day later after sustained diplomatic and consular efforts by the Nigerian Embassy in Abidjan. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement signed by spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the mission maintained regular consular access, monitored the detainees’ welfare, and engaged Ivorian authorities including the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Justice to secure their release. The ministry praised Ambassador Nwabiola Ezenwa and embassy staff for their professionalism, and thanked the Ivorian government for cooperation, noting the cordial bilateral relationship contributed to the outcome. It also reminded Nigerians living or travelling abroad to obey host‑country laws and maintain regular contact with the nearest Nigerian embassy or consulate to ensure prompt assistance when needed. The names of the individuals and the specific economic offences they were accused of were not disclosed.