The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has confirmed the release of the Nigerian girls who were detained by immigration authorities in Mauritius.
In a statement issued on Monday by its Digital Media Unit, the commission said the travellers have been released and are now on their way back to Nairobi.
NiDCOM said its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, is working closely with the Nigerian Embassy, which has officially engaged Mauritian authorities over the incident.
“The Nigerian girls who were previously detained have been released. They are currently on their way back to Nairobi,” the statement said.
The commission added that the embassy’s engagement is aimed at ensuring accountability and preventing a similar incident in the future. It also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare of Nigerians both at home and abroad.
The release followed public concern after an X user claimed the girls had been detained at a Mauritian airport since July 31 without being told why they were being held.
The user alleged that immigration officials asked the women to sign an undisclosed document. According to the post, the travellers refused until they were given an explanation, but none was provided.
The social media user also claimed that one of the women became ill during the detention due to prolonged stress. Another claim stated that one of the travellers had visited Mauritius to celebrate her birthday before the incident occurred.
The allegations sparked widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians urging the Federal Government and relevant agencies to intervene.
While the girls have now been released, the exact reason for their detention has not been made public. Mauritian authorities have also not issued any official statement on the incident
