The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission has confirmed the release of the Nigerian girls who were recently detained abroad, saying they are on their way back to Nairobi.

The development follows public concern over a viral video showing the girls in detention, which prompted calls for the Nigerian government to intervene.

On Instagram, #Queenbethia had posted the video on Sunday: “Pls tag every relevant authority because this is nonsense !!!! This cannot keep happening!! Mauritius is notorious for this !!!”

They have been held at the Mauritius airport since July 31, 2026, she lamented.

NiDCOM, in a statement issued on Monday by its Digital Media Unit, disclosed that the girls had regained their freedom and that efforts were underway to ensure the circumstances surrounding their detention were fully addressed.

“The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) 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 commission stated.

NiDCOM added that its Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, was engaging the relevant Nigerian mission to pursue the matter with the authorities in the country where the incident occurred.

“The Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, is actively engaging the relevant Nigerian Embassy who have formally taken up this matter with the authorities of the country concerned, to ensure full accountability and prevent any recurrence,” the statement read.

The commission reiterated its commitment to the welfare and protection of Nigerians living or travelling abroad, saying the intervention aligns with the Federal Government’s renewed focus on citizens’ welfare.

“NiDCOM, in line with Mr President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, remains committed to the welfare and protection of all Nigerians home and abroad,” it added.

NiDCOM did not disclose the identities of the girls, the country where they were detained, or the circumstances that led to their arrest.

The commission also did not indicate when they are expected to arrive in Nairobi or Nigeria.

Similarly, neither the Mauritius government nor the airport have spoken officially about the reasons behind their delay at the airport. (PUNCH)

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