The presidency has announced that France will return $150 million that was stolen by former Nigerian military leader General Sani Abacha.
Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, made this statement on Friday and President Bola Tinubu praised France for their decision.
Tinubu also expressed his gratitude for France’s cooperation in returning Nigeria’s money and stated that it will be used wisely to achieve development goals.
“Thank you for the good news on the return of Abacha loot. We appreciate your effective cooperation concerning the return of Nigeria’s money. It will be judiciously applied in attaining our development objectives,” Tinubu was quoted as saying.
Tinubu also acknowledged the positive relationship between Nigeria and France in areas such as climate change, economic integration, education, and culture.
Additionally, Tinubu mentioned the signing of a €100 million agreement between Nigeria and France to support the i-DICE program, which promotes investment in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Creative Arts Industries.
The agreement was signed by the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Technology, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, and the French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs.
Regarding the Abacha loot, the French Presidential Envoy stated that the repatriation was the result of a lengthy legal process and expressed satisfaction with its conclusion.
“It was a long process, but we are glad that it was concluded. Sometimes, justice may be slow, but this is a very good achievement,” she said.
