More than 100 Nigerians currently serving prison sentences in Ethiopia may soon be repatriated following the conclusion of arrangements for a prisoner transfer agreement between both countries.
The development marks a major diplomatic breakthrough in ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to secure the return of Nigerian citizens incarcerated abroad under a structured legal framework.
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, arrived in Addis Ababa alongside the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, for the formal signing of the agreement.
Upon arrival, the Nigerian delegation was received by Ethiopia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and the country’s Chief of Protocol, underscoring the significance both nations attach to the pact.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu disclosed that the agreement was scheduled to be signed on Wednesday, describing it as the culmination of years of diplomatic engagements, legal reviews and administrative procedures between the two African nations.
The minister revealed that the prolonged negotiations came at a painful cost, noting that four Nigerian inmates lost their lives while awaiting the finalisation of the arrangement.
“We cannot afford to lose any more precious lives. We are determined to bring home the living,” she stated in a message posted on her X account.
According to the minister, the affected Nigerian prisoners are being held at Kaliti Prison and Aba Samuel Prison in Ethiopia.
She explained that the transfer agreement reflects the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Ethiopia and is built on the principles of humanitarian concern, justice and mutual cooperation.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed that while the Federal Government consistently advises Nigerians living abroad to respect the laws of their host countries and uphold the nation’s reputation, it remains committed to protecting the rights and welfare of its citizens wherever they may be.
She noted that Nigerians facing legal challenges outside the country deserve fair treatment and due process in line with international legal standards and established judicial procedures.
The minister further stated that the protection and welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora remain a priority under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
She also commended the Ethiopian government for its support and collaboration throughout the negotiation process, which ultimately paved the way for the successful completion of the agreement.
The prisoner transfer arrangement is expected to provide an opportunity for the affected inmates to serve the remainder of their sentences in Nigeria, closer to their families and within a familiar social environment.
Observers said the agreement highlights growing diplomatic cooperation between Nigeria and Ethiopia and demonstrates both countries’ commitment to addressing humanitarian concerns through bilateral engagement and legal collaboration.
