The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has confirmed that the Nigerian girls who were detained in Mauritius have been released and are travelling back to Nairobi.

According to a statement issued on Monday by NiDCOM’s Digital Media Unit, the girls regained their freedom following public concern sparked by a viral video showing them in detention at Mauritius airport.

The video, shared on Instagram by user #Queenbethia, alleged that the women had been held at the airport since July 31, 2026, prompting calls for Nigerian authorities to intervene.

NiDCOM said efforts are continuing to ensure the circumstances surrounding the detention are 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 said.

NiDCOM Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, is engaging the relevant Nigerian embassy, which has formally taken up the matter with the authorities in Mauritius to seek accountability and prevent a recurrence.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians living and travelling abroad, describing the intervention as part of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda on citizens’ welfare.

NiDCOM did not reveal the identities of the girls or explain the circumstances that led to their detention. It also did not state when they are expected to return to Nigeria.

As of Monday, neither the Mauritian government nor airport authorities had issued an official statement explaining why the women were detained.