The United States has repatriated nearly $53 million in alleged stolen funds linked to Nigeria’s former oil minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke.
The funds, reportedly laundered through the US, will be used for public services in Nigeria, according to the country’s Ministry of Justice.
US authorities allege Alison-Madueke, who led Nigeria’s state oil company, awarded contracts in exchange for bribes and used the proceeds to acquire luxury assets, including the 65-meter superyacht “Galactica Star” and multiple properties in California and New York. 
Alison-Madueke, 64, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Her alleged corrupt activities are also being investigated in the UK, where she faces bribery charges involving cash, luxury goods, and payment of school fees.
This marks the first repatriation of assets tied to Alison-Madueke outside Nigeria. At a signing ceremony in Abuja, Nigeria’s Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi confirmed the return of $52.88 million, emphasizing its role in combating corruption.
The funds will be allocated as follows: $50 million will support rural electrification projects through the World Bank, while $2.88 million will strengthen Nigeria’s justice system and anti-corruption efforts via the International Institute of Justice.
US Ambassador Richard Mills highlighted the importance of transparency, urging Nigerian authorities to ensure the funds are used effectively to benefit citizens.
In previous cases, the US repatriated $20.6 million in assets linked to former military leader General Sani Abacha in 2022 and $311.8 million in 2018 as part of efforts to combat corruption.
Read More:
