The detention of University of Warsaw students on Nigerian territory is an event that requires instant action by the University authorities and the Polish Foreign Service. Immediately upon receiving information about the incident, the UW Rector ordered extensive measures to clarify the case, release the students and support their families. Acting on behalf of the UW Rector, the University Chancellor contacted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Polish consular services. Staying in regular contact with them, information was gathered on the whereabouts and allegations made against the students. It was established that their going outside the accommodation at night was considered by the local police as a violation of local law. The authorities of the Faculty of Oriental Studies, where the detained students are educated, are involved in the efforts to help the students.

All the time, joint efforts are being made with the Polish consul on the spot, aimed at freeing the detainees.

“The safe return to the country of our students and their tutor is a priority in our activities. We must do everything in our power to make this happen as soon as possible,” Prof. Alojzy Z. Nowak, the UW Rector, said.

Up-to-date information on the circumstances of the students’ stay in Nigeria (the study trip was organised by the UW Faculty of Oriental Studies), the required documents facilitate dialogue with local services. The University and faculty authorities are in regular contact with the students’ families, keeping them informed of the arrangements made. We hope that the efforts made so far, the actions taken and the cooperation will contribute to the speedy release of the students.