The US government has returned $52.88 million linked to former Nigerian Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke. The funds, traced to Galactica assets, were repatriated through an agreement between the US and Nigerian governments. A transparent framework will ensure the effective use of these funds for Nigeria’s benefit.
The United States government has returned a sum of $52.88 million that was linked to Nigeria's former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke. The funds were recovered through the forfeiture of assets associated with her and her affiliates. The repatriation was formalized during a ceremony led by the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Richard M. Mills Jr., in Abuja, with the Nigerian Attorney-General, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, representing the government.
The Attorney-General emphasized that this move reflects both nations' ongoing commitment to fighting corruption. In addition, the funds will be monitored and managed transparently through a framework that will be overseen by the World Bank and the International Investigations Group. Reports will be shared periodically with both the Nigerian and US governments to ensure the proper use of the funds.
This repatriation is a significant step in Nigeria's efforts to recover stolen assets, signaling a continuing collaboration with international partners in fighting corruption. It also underscores the importance of global cooperation in restoring looted funds for the benefit of the Nigerian people.
