The Nigerian government has successfully reclaimed $52.88 million in assets linked to former Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke, handed over by the United States on Friday.
Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, announced the recovery during a formal signing event in Abuja.
Fagbemi revealed that $50 million of the recovered funds would be channeled through the World Bank to support rural electrification initiatives, while the remaining $2.88 million would go to the International Institute of Justice to bolster the legal system and anti-corruption efforts.
“This recovery marks a major step forward in the collaboration between Nigeria and the United States to fight corruption and uphold the rule of law,” Fagbemi stated, adding that the move aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to combat corruption and ensure judicious use of public resources.
U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, emphasized accountability, urging the Nigerian government to ensure the recovered assets are used transparently to benefit its citizens.
“The Ministry of Justice must guarantee these funds are effectively utilized to improve the lives of Nigerians,” Mills said.