ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — Nigeria has signed a bilateral Prisoner Transfer Agreement with Ethiopia, paving the way for Nigerian inmates serving sentences in the East African country to be transferred home under an arrangement grounded in humanitarian and legal cooperation.
Okay News reports that Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, delivered a message of reassurance to Nigerian prisoners during a visit to AbaSamuel Prison, telling them that the Nigerian government remained committed to their welfare despite the challenges they face abroad.
“Your country will not desert you. Your President knows you are here,” the minister told the inmates, describing the agreement as a product of extensive negotiations, judicial reviews and diplomatic engagements between Nigeria and Ethiopia.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu disclosed that four Nigerian prisoners died while discussions on the transfer arrangement were ongoing, highlighting the urgency and significance of the agreement. She said the pact was founded on the principles of humanity, justice and cooperation between both countries.
The minister conveyed the appreciation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian government to the Ethiopian authorities for their collaboration in reaching the agreement, noting that the protection and welfare of Nigerians living abroad remain a priority of the administration.
While urging Nigerians overseas to obey the laws of their host countries and uphold the nation’s image, Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed that citizens who run into legal difficulties abroad would not be abandoned. She said the government would continue to ensure that such individuals enjoy their rights within the framework of applicable laws and international agreements.
