The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has appealed to US President-elect Donald Trump to identify and recover illicit assets stashed in American banks by Nigerian public officials.
In a letter dated 18 January 2025, SERAP called for immediate action to trace and seize these corruption proceeds, estimated to exceed $500 billion.
The organization emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in returning the funds to Nigeria, ensuring they benefit the Nigerian people.
SERAP also urged Trump to publish the names of implicated officials and enforce temporary travel bans on them.
This request follows the recent repatriation of $52.88 million linked to former Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke.
SERAP argues that recovering these assets is essential for alleviating poverty and achieving sustainable development goals in Nigeria.
The group urged the US to fulfil its obligations under the UN Convention Against Corruption by assisting Nigeria in recovering stolen funds and addressing systemic corruption plaguing the country.
