Nigerian Inmates in Ethiopia Celebrate as FG Signs Prisoner Transfer Agreement

More than 100 Nigerian inmates serving various prison terms in Ethiopia are set to return home following the signing of a prisoner transfer agreement between the governments of Nigeria and Ethiopia.

The landmark agreement was signed on Friday by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, and Ethiopia's Minister of Justice, Hanna Arayaselassie, in the presence of senior government officials from both countries.

The agreement allows Nigerian citizens convicted and imprisoned in Ethiopia to be transferred to Nigeria to serve the remainder of their jail terms closer to their families and within their home country's correctional system. Reports indicate that over 100 Nigerian inmates are expected to benefit from the arrangement.

The development has been welcomed by many of the affected prisoners, who expressed joy at the prospect of reuniting with their families and serving the rest of their sentences in Nigeria.

Officials said the agreement reflects the growing diplomatic and legal cooperation between Nigeria and Ethiopia. It is also expected to improve the welfare of convicted persons by enabling them to serve their sentences in familiar cultural and social environments while maintaining the integrity of judicial decisions handed down by Ethiopian courts.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Fagbemi described the agreement as a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting international cooperation in criminal justice administration.

The transfer process is expected to commence after the completion of necessary legal and administrative procedures by both governments. Authorities have assured that the implementation of the agreement will be carried out in accordance with international standards and the laws of both countries.

The agreement marks a major milestone in Nigeria's efforts to protect the rights and welfare of its citizens abroad while deepening ties with fellow African nations.