JUST IN: NiDCOM confirms release of detained Nigerian Girls in Mauritius, engages embassy

Africa, Crime Diary

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has confirmed the release of two Nigerian girls who were detained in Mauritius following reports that they were held after travelling to the island nation for a birthday celebration.

The development follows widespread concern on social media over the circumstances surrounding their detention.

In a statement issued on Thursday, NiDCOM said the two Nigerians had regained their freedom and were already on their way back to Nairobi, Kenya.

The Commission said its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, is actively engaging the relevant Nigerian Embassy, which has formally taken up the matter with the authorities in Mauritius.

According to NiDCOM, the diplomatic engagement is aimed at ensuring accountability over the incident and preventing a recurrence.

“The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission wishes to inform the public that the Nigerian girls who were previously detained have been released. They are currently on their way back to Nairobi,” the statement said.

It added that the Nigerian Embassy is pursuing the matter with the appropriate authorities in the country concerned.

NiDCOM reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare and rights of Nigerians living and travelling abroad, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Commission also assured Nigerians that it would continue to work with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the country’s diplomatic missions to safeguard the interests of citizens overseas.