The Federal Government has secured the release of three Nigerians previously detained in Saudi Arabia over alleged drug offences, following months of diplomatic engagement with Saudi authorities.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed on Wednesday that Abdulhamid Sadieq, Maryam Hussein Abdullahi, and Bahijah Aminu Abdullahi were arrested in August 2025 at King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, after prohibited substances were found in luggage fraudulently linked to their flight tickets.
In a statement, ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa said the travellers were unaware of the illegal items, prompting swift intervention by the Nigerian Consulate General in Jeddah.
“Muazam Nayaya, Consul General, contacted Saudi authorities and reported the case to the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, while seeking the support of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA),” the statement said.
The consulate maintained regular engagement with Saudi officials, facilitated legal representation, and conducted prison visits to safeguard the welfare of the detained Nigerians.
After thorough investigations, Saudi authorities cleared the trio of any involvement in drug trafficking. Maryam Hussein Abdullahi and Bahijah Aminu Abdullahi returned to Nigeria on November 5, while Abdulhamid Sadieq’s travel restriction was lifted on December 2, with arrangements for his return underway.
The Federal Government commended the Saudi authorities for their cooperation and acknowledged the roles of the NDLEA and the Jeddah Consulate, noting that the successful outcome reflects Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad under President Bola Tinubu’s 4D Foreign Policy Doctrine.
