The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has confirmed the release of the Nigerian girls who were detained in Mauritius, saying they are now on their way back to Nigeria after being freed.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Commission’s Head of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, who said NiDCOM Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has remained actively engaged with the relevant Nigerian diplomatic mission throughout the process.
According to the statement, the Nigerian Embassy formally took up the matter with the Mauritian authorities to ensure the girls’ release while also seeking accountability over the circumstances that led to their detention and measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The statement noted that the girls were safely released in Nairobi, Kenya, and are currently en route to Nigeria.
Reacting to the development, Dabiri-Erewa expressed relief over their release and extended her sympathy to the affected Nigerians for the ordeal they endured. She also expressed hope that the young women would be willing to share details of their experiences upon arrival in Nigeria to aid any necessary investigations, policy reviews and support interventions.
She said firsthand accounts from the victims would help the Commission and relevant government agencies better understand the circumstances surrounding the incident and strengthen efforts to protect Nigerians travelling or residing abroad.
The NiDCOM boss reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare, safety and protection of Nigerians across the world, stressing that the well-being of citizens in the diaspora remains a key priority.
She added that the Commission would continue to work closely with Nigerian missions abroad and relevant authorities to safeguard the rights of Nigerians and respond promptly to cases involving citizens outside the country.
Dabiri-Erewa said the Commission’s efforts are in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises the protection and welfare of Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora.
