The President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, President Bola Tinubu expressed Nigeria’s gratitude to France for returning $150 million that was embezzled by former Head of State, Gen. Sani Abacha.
During a meeting in Abuja, President Tinubu extended his appreciation to Catherine Colonna, the Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, who conveyed the news of the loot’s return.
“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,” President Tinubu stated.
The French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs acknowledged that the repatriation had been long overdue but expressed satisfaction that justice had been served.
“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 remarked.
Additionally, President Tinubu acknowledged the approval of a €100 million agreement between Nigeria and France aimed at strengthening the i-DICE program.
The i-DICE program is a Federal Government initiative designed to boost investment in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Creative Arts Industries.
The agreement was signed by Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Technology, along with the French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs during an event in Abuja.
President Tinubu commended the deepening bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and France, highlighting the progress made since his official visit to Paris shortly after his inauguration.
This development signifies a positive step toward achieving Nigeria’s development goals.