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Ivory Coast has released six Nigerians who had been detained in prisons since October 2025 following diplomatic and consular engagements by the Nigerian Embassy in Abidjan with the relevant Ivorian authorities.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs‘ spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday, saying four of the Nigerians were released on Monday, while the remaining two prisoners regained their freedom the following day.
“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,” Ebienfa said.
He added 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.
Ebienfa reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad, saying it would continue to provide consular assistance through its diplomatic missions worldwide.
He also advised Nigerians travelling or residing abroad to obey the laws of their host countries and maintain regular contact with the nearest Nigerian diplomatic or consular mission to facilitate assistance whenever necessary.
“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,” Ebienfa added.
