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The Federal Government of Nigeria celebrates a major victory in its anti-corruption campaign. Authorities in Jersey have agreed to return more than $9.5 million in forfeited assets to Nigeria. These funds stem from corruption during the regime of the late General Sani Abacha.
Investigators traced the money to a bank account in Jersey. The Royal Court ruled in January 2024 that the assets likely resulted from corrupt schemes. Officials diverted public funds through third-party contractors for personal gain.
Nigeria's Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, signed a Memorandum of Understanding in December 2025 with Jersey's Attorney General, Mark Temple KC. This agreement ensures the swift transfer of the funds.
The repatriated money will support the final stages of the Abuja-Kano Road project. This 375-kilometer highway connects the capital to Kano, Nigeria's second-largest city.6edbc6 The investment boosts infrastructure and drives economic growth.
"The successful recovery and repatriation of the forfeited assets underscores the effectiveness of Nigeria's collaborative efforts with its international partners in ensuring that there is no safe haven for illicitly acquired wealth or assets moved to foreign jurisdictions," said Prince Lateef Fagbemi.
Mark Temple KC added, "The return demonstrates the strength of our civil forfeiture legislation as a powerful tool in the fight against corruption."
This repatriation builds on previous successes. Jersey has already returned over $300 million to Nigeria for major projects like the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and the Second Niger Bridge.
The Federal Government commits to transparent use of these funds. Nigeria continues to pursue looted assets worldwide to benefit its citizens.