Binance executive, Tigran Gambaryan, has left Nigeria after eight months of detention in the country.

In a statement, yesterday, the family disclosed, “Today, American citizen, Gambaryan, left Nigeria and returned home to his family after eight months of unlawful detention.”

The United States National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, also confirmed Gambaryan’s release on humanitarian grounds. He expressed gratitude to Nigerian officials and diplomatic partners who worked to ensure Gambaryan’s return to the U.S.

“As soon as we secured Gambaryan’s release, I called his wife to share this good news,” Sullivan said. Gambaryan’s wife, Yuki, had publicly campaigned for her husband’s release due to concerns over his deteriorating health.

Sullivan also emphasised the importance of U.S.-Nigeria cooperation, expressing hope that the bilateral relationship between the two countries would continue to grow. This cooperation, according to Sullivan, played a key role in the Binance executive’s release.

Echoing Sullivan’s remarks, U.S. Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, said: “The U.S. thanks the government of Nigeria for releasing U.S. citizen, Gambaryan, on medical grounds, allowing him to return to the U.S. to receive the specialised medical care he requires.

“This positive outcome demonstrates the strength of the U.S.-Nigeria partnership and highlights our shared commitment to working together to advance our common interests. Our close law enforcement cooperation remains a cornerstone of our bilateral relationship, and the U.S. is committed to working closely with Nigeria to address mutual concerns and prioritise the safety and well-being of our citizens.”

Recall that the Federal High Court in Abuja discharged the Binance executive on Wednesday from the money laundering charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

According to sources, Gambaryan was allowed to leave Kuje correctional centre on Wednesday night. Reacting, Yuki said: “It is a huge relief that this day has finally come. The past eight months have been a living nightmare. I wish it had not taken this long for his release, or that his health had not declined so much, but we can now focus on healing as a family.” She expressed gratitude to the U.S. government for their efforts in securing his release.

“There were moments I feared this day would never come, but Gambaryan’s supporters gave me hope and strength,” she stated, explaining that the road ahead for the Binance official’s recovery will be difficult.

Also reacting, Binance Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Richard Teng, expressed deep relief and gratitude that Gambaryan has finally been released. 

He said: “Throughout this difficult period, Gambaryan has shown immense strength, and we commend his resilience in the face of such severe adversity. We are deeply thankful to everyone who dedicated countless hours to support Gambaryan’s release.”

According to him, Gambaryan’s health and well-being remain Binance’s top priority, and he will receive the medical care and rest he urgently needs alongside his family.

The CEO emphasised Binance’s commitment to collaborating with global regulators to ensure compliance and transparency in the evolving digital asset space.

He expressed eagerness to put “the episode” behind them and continue working towards a brighter future for the blockchain industry worldwide.

With a young, tech-savvy population and a strong interest in digital finance, according to him, Nigeria is well-positioned to leverage blockchain technology to address economic and social challenges. He expressed readiness to play a “constructive role” in that effort.

The Guardian