Nigeria, Ethiopia sign prisoner transfer deal as over 100 inmates set for repatriation
The Federal Government of Nigeria has signed a bilateral agreement with the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to facilitate the repatriation of more than 100 Nigerian nationals currently serving various prison sentences in Ethiopian correctional facilities.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has signed a bilateral agreement with the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to facilitate the repatriation of more than 100 Nigerian nationals currently serving various prison sentences in Ethiopian correctional facilities.
The development follows the formal signing of a Transfer of Sentenced Persons Agreement between both countries, aimed at allowing convicted Nigerian inmates to complete their remaining jail terms in Nigeria under a structured legal framework.
Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of Foreign Affairs, disclosed that over 100 Nigerians are currently held in Ethiopian prisons and will be gradually transferred back home.
According to her, the repatriation process is already underway, although administrative and diplomatic procedures may mean the transfer will take some time to conclude.
She explained that the agreement is rooted in humanitarian concerns and the protection of Nigerian citizens abroad, stressing that the government is committed to ensuring that no Nigerian is left in vulnerable conditions in foreign detention facilities.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu, during a visit to detention centres in Ethiopia, met with Nigerian inmates and assured them of the Federal Government’s commitment to their return.
“Your country will not abandon you; your President is aware you are here,” she reportedly told the inmates.
