NIGERIA: FG Confirms Release of Three Nigerians Cleared of Drug Allegations in Saudi Arabia

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria 

The Federal Government has announced the release of three Nigerian nationals earlier detained in Saudi Arabia after being exonerated of drug-related allegations by the country’s authorities.

This was confirmed in a press release by the presidency media team on Thursday.

The individuals, Mr. Abdulhamid Sadie, Mrs. Maryam Hussein Abdullahi, and Mrs. Bahijah Aminu Abdullah, were arrested in August 2025 at King Abdul Aziz International Airport, Jeddah, after prohibited substances were found in luggage fraudulently tagged to their tickets at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport without their knowledge.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerian Consulate in Jeddah immediately intervened. Consul General Ambassador Muazami I. J. Nayaya engaged Saudi authorities, notified Abuja, and requested the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to assist in the investigation. The Mission also facilitated prison visits and secured legal representation for the detainees.

Following months of investigation, Saudi authorities cleared all three Nigerians of any involvement in drug trafficking. Mrs. Maryam Hussein Abdullahi and Mrs. Bahijah Aminu Abdullahi were released and returned to Nigeria on November 5, 2025, while the travel ban on Mr. Abdulhamid Sadie was lifted on December 2, with arrangements underway for his return.

The Ministry commended the cooperation of Saudi authorities and the efforts of the NDLEA and Nigerian Consulate in securing justice.

It added that the case reflects Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 4D foreign policy doctrine.