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YENAGOA, Nigeria, June 11 (Reuters) - Nigerian militants freed 12 foreign hostages in the oil producing Niger Delta on Monday as a prelude to peace talks with the incoming government of President Umaru Yar'Adua.

The release of five Americans, three Britons, two Indians and two others in Bayelsa state was the latest sign of an easing of tension in Africa's top oil producer after Yar'Adua promised to address grievances in the impoverished region.

"Twelve hostages were released to the governor this evening and right now there are no more hostages in Bayelsa state," said Bayelsa state spokesman Ebimo Amungo.

A faction of the rebel Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta had earlier sent an e-mail to the media announcing the release of 11 hostages as a means of opening the way for talks.

It said a South African and a Filipino were also in the group of hostages to be freed.

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