Saudi Arabia Frees Three Nigerian Women After Diplomatic Talks

Three Nigerian women detained in Saudi Arabia on allegations of drug possession have been released following diplomatic interventions by the Nigerian government.

Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, confirmed their release in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja.

The freed women, identified as Hadiza Abba, Fatima Malah, and Fatima Gamboi, were initially detained while on pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. Their arrest stemmed from suspicion of involvement in trafficking a substance believed to be cocaine.

According to the statement, the women's release was secured after prolonged diplomatic and legal engagements between Nigerian and Saudi authorities.

“The trio’s arrest attracted significant attention in both countries. Their successful release and acquittal were achieved through high-level discussions, culminating in their handover to the Nigerian Consulate-General in Jeddah,” the statement read.

The women were officially freed on March 5, 2024, at Prince Mohammad bin Abdul Azeez International Airport in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. Amb. Muazam Nayaya, Consul-General of Nigeria in Jeddah, received the women, who are now completing immigration processes to return to Nigeria and reunite with their families.