The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has confirmed the release of a group of Nigerian girls who were detained in Mauritius, following diplomatic efforts by Nigerian authorities.
The commission disclosed the development in a statement issued by its Digital Media Unit after widespread concern over a viral video showing the girls in detention.
The girls were reportedly held at Mauritius airport from July 31, sparking calls for the Federal Government to intervene.
According to NiDCOM, the girls have now been released and are en route to Nigeria through Nairobi, Kenya.
“Relief has come for families back home as the Nigerian girls previously detained in Mauritius have now been released and are on their way back to Nigeria,” the statement read.
The commission explained that their release followed several days of diplomatic engagement between Nigerian officials and the Mauritian authorities.
“The development follows days of diplomatic engagement between Nigerian authorities and officials in Mauritius. The girls were confirmed to have been safely released in Nairobi, Kenya, where arrangements were made for their onward journey to Nigeria,” the statement added.
NiDCOM also revealed that its Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, remained in close contact with the Nigerian Embassy throughout the process.
According to the commission, the embassy formally engaged the Mauritian authorities to secure the girls’ release, ensure accountability, and help prevent similar incidents in the future.