The Nigerian government has recovered $52.88 million in assets linked to former Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke from the United States. The formal signing ceremony for the asset return agreement was held in Abuja on Friday, with Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, leading the proceedings.
Fagbemi announced that $50 million of the funds will be directed through the World Bank to develop rural electrification projects, while the remaining $2 million will be allocated to the International Institute of Justice to strengthen the justice system and counter corruption.
“This marks a milestone in Nigeria’s collaboration with the United States in combating corruption and reinforcing the rule of law,” Fagbemi stated, highlighting the significance of the recovery in President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to tackle corruption in Nigeria.
U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, emphasized the importance of transparent monitoring and effective utilization of the recovered assets to ensure they benefit Nigerians.
The recovery underscores the growing partnership between Nigeria and the U.S. in addressing corruption and promoting governance reforms.