US govt returns to Nigeria $52.88m linked to former Petroleum Minister, Diezani

The Government of the United States of America (USA) has repatriated the sum of $52. 88 million, saying it was traced to Diezani Madueke, Nigeria’s former Petroleum Resources Minister.

Mr. Richard M. Mills, Jr., the US Ambassador to Nigeria, led a delegation that executed the Assets Return Agreement at the Federal Ministry of Justice Headquarters in Abuja, on Friday.

Signing the agreement on behalf of the Federal Government, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, revealed that the $52.88 million arose from the forfeiture of Galactica assets linked to the ex-Minister and her associates.

The AGF maintained that the development was not only a testament to the unwavering commitment of both nations to fight corruption but also signified the commitment of the USA to facilitate restitution and support integrity and accountability in governance.

“Measures have also been put in place to ensure that the repatriated funds are not only disbursed but also utilized transparently and accountably by the World Bank and IIJ, with periodic reports to be forwarded to Nigeria and the US on the implementation of the projects.

“This robust framework will guarantee that the funds are effectively used for the full benefit of the Nigerian people in line with UNCAC and the Global Forum on Asset Recovery (GFAR) principles,” the AGF added.