French hostage in Nigeria released: Elysee

A French hostage kidnapped on Dec. 20, 2012 in Nigeria was released, the French president's office Elysee said on Sunday.

"The President of Republic welcomes with joy the liberation of our compatriot Francis Collomp. He was kidnapped on Dec. 20, 2012 in Nigeria," said Elysee in a statement.

French President Francois Hollande also expressed his gratitude to Nigerian authorities, with whom French authorities have collaborated closely on this decisive action.

French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius will leave for Nigeria to receive the ex-hostage, the statement said.

Seven French citizens are still being held hostage in Syria, Mali, and Nigeria, reminded the statement.