The Nigerian government has finalized plans to repatriate nearly 100 citizens serving prison sentences in Ethiopia, following a bilateral prisoner transfer agreement signed between the two nations in Addis Ababa. The pact was sealed by Nigeria's Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), and his Ethiopian counterpart, Hanna Arayaselassie.
Diplomatic Efforts and Commitment to Citizens Abroad
The agreement was facilitated through diplomatic coordination led by the foreign ministries of both countries. Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who delivered President Bola Tinubu's message to inmates at Aba Samuel Prison, assured them of the government's unwavering commitment to the welfare of Nigerians abroad. She emphasized that the administration will not abandon its citizens.
Eligibility and Conditions for Transfer
The arrangement covers 98 inmates — 96 men and two women — who are eligible for transfer, subject to their consent and the requirement that they have at least one year remaining on their sentences. Officials stated that this initiative is part of Nigeria's 4-D Foreign Policy framework, which prioritizes development, democracy, diaspora engagement, and defense.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu urged the inmates to fully cooperate with documentation processes, noting that the initiative is driven by humanitarian considerations and justice. However, she stressed that the agreement “is not a license for impunity,” adding that repatriated inmates will continue to serve their sentences under the Nigerian correctional system.
Challenges and Inmate Response
At least four Nigerians reportedly died during the negotiation process leading to the agreement. Despite this, inmates at Aba Samuel Prison welcomed the development with relief and pledged good conduct ahead of their transfer. The first batch of repatriations is expected to begin once all consent forms and administrative procedures are completed.
