Three Nigerians Freed in Saudi Arabia After Wrongful Arrest as FG Hails Kingdom’s Swift Cooperation

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The Federal Government has confirmed the release of three Nigerians earlier detained in Saudi Arabia over alleged drug-related offences, following weeks of diplomatic engagement and joint investigations with the Kingdom’s authorities.

Those released include Mr. Abdulhamid Sadie, Mrs. Maryam Hussein Abdullahi, and Mrs. Bahijah Aminu Abdullahi, who were arrested in August 2025 at King Abdul Aziz International Airport, Jeddah.

According to official updates, their ordeal began when prohibited substances were found in luggage criminal syndicates had fraudulently tagged to their flight tickets at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA)—without their knowledge or consent.

The incident has sparked renewed debate about airport security and the tactics of drug trafficking cartels exploiting unsuspecting travellers.

Upon receiving information on the arrests, Ambassador Muazam I. J. Nayaya, Nigeria’s Consul General in Jeddah, promptly engaged Saudi authorities while notifying the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja. The Consulate also sought the involvement of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to assist in uncovering the criminal network behind the tampered luggage.

Diplomatic sources confirmed that the Nigerian Mission in Jeddah maintained “consistent and constructive engagement” with Saudi officials, ensured access through prison visits, and facilitated legal representation for the detained citizens.

Following a thorough investigation that established the innocence of the travellers, Saudi authorities approved their release—an outcome the Federal Government described as a testament to the strong cooperation and mutual trust between Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The FG also reiterated its commitment to protecting Nigerian citizens abroad while urging travellers to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around airports across the country.