The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has confirmed the release of Nigerian girls detained at an airport in Mauritius, saying they are on their way back to Nairobi, Kenya.
The commission announced the development on Monday, August 3, 2026, after a viral social media video showing the girls in detention sparked widespread concern and calls for urgent government intervention.
The video, posted on Sunday, August 2, claimed the girls had been held at the Mauritius airport since Friday, July 31, 2026.
In a statement issued by its Digital Media Unit, NiDCOM said the girls had been released and had commenced their return journey to Nairobi.
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The commission added that its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, was coordinating with the relevant Nigerian diplomatic mission, which has formally engaged the Mauritian authorities to determine the circumstances surrounding the detention, ensure accountability where necessary and prevent a recurrence.
NiDCOM did not disclose the identities of the girls or the reason for their detention. It also gave no timeline for their arrival in Nairobi or return to Nigeria.
Mauritian authorities had yet to issue an official explanation for the incident as of the time of filing this report.
The latest case adds to a series of consular interventions involving Nigerians facing immigration and travel-related difficulties abroad, with NiDCOM continuing to work with Nigerian missions to secure assistance and protect the rights of citizens outside the country.
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare and protection of Nigerians in the diaspora, stressing that safeguarding citizens abroad remains a key priority.