FG Secures Amnesty for Thousands of Nigerians in Indian Prisons, Begins New Round of Negotiations

The Federal Government says it is actively working to secure the release of Nigerians currently held in prisons and detention centers across India.

According to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, NiDCOM, officials of the Nigeria High Commission in India visited 198 Nigerian inmates in five prisons in Maharashtra and Mumbai as of September 1, 2026. More Nigerians are still being held in other Indian states.

NiDCOM disclosed that between September 2025 and May 2026, the High Commission successfully secured amnesty for thousands of Nigerians in Indian prisons. Most of those released were detained for immigration violations and other minor irregularities. They have since been repatriated to Nigeria.

The Commission noted that some Nigerians did not take advantage of the amnesty window when it was offered.

In a new development, Nigeria’s Ambassador to India, Her Excellency Amb. Bianca Ojukwu, is currently engaging Indian authorities to approve another six-month amnesty. This is specifically for Nigerians in detention camps who do not have active court cases.

On the case of Mr. Ekene that has been circulating online, NiDCOM said the High Commission is already reviewing his file. The statement explained that if he qualifies for release and his family is able to meet the required financial conditions, the process will be expedited. Due process will however be followed.

The High Commission is also mounting pressure on Indian authorities to fast-track trials for Nigerians awaiting judgment for various offenses.

NiDCOM Chairperson, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, urged Nigerians living irregularly in India to take advantage of the next amnesty once it is announced. She warned that those who remain in India illegally risk arrest and prosecution.

She clarified that the proposed amnesty will not cover persons facing trial for criminal offenses such as drug trafficking.

The Federal Government is appealing to Nigerians abroad to obey the laws of their host countries and avoid actions that could lead to detention.