FG secures release of three Nigerians cleared of drug allegations in Saudi Arabia

The Federal Government has secured the release and full lifting of a travel ban on three Nigerians earlier detained in Saudi Arabia over alleged drug offences, following months of diplomatic engagement and joint investigations 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 the King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, after prohibited substances were discovered in luggage fraudulently tagged to their flight tickets by criminal syndicates operating at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA).

In a statement, ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa said the travellers were unaware of the illegal items linked to their travel documents, prompting immediate intervention by the Nigerian Consulate General in Jeddah upon their arrest.

“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.

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The mission, according to the ministry, maintained regular engagements with Saudi officials, facilitated legal representation, and conducted prison visits to ensure the welfare of the detained citizens.

Following extensive investigations, the Saudi authorities cleared the Nigerians of any involvement in drug trafficking. They were released between 14 and 15 September 2025, though a temporary travel restriction remained in place pending final security checks.

The ministry said the travel ban on Maryam Hussein Abdullahi and Bahijah Aminu Abdullahi was lifted earlier, enabling them to return to Nigeria on 5 November 2025. The restriction on Sadieq was lifted on 2 December, with arrangements for his return now being finalised by the Nigerian Mission in Jeddah.

The Federal Government commended the cooperation and professionalism of the Saudi authorities throughout the process and acknowledged the role of the NDLEA and the Jeddah Consulate in resolving the case.

The ministry added that the successful outcome underscores Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s 4D Foreign Policy Doctrine.

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