Nigerians remain in Saudi prisons after jail terms over unpaid fines — Envoy

Ambassador Dr. Yakubu Gambo expressed concern over the situation of Nigerians in Saudi Arabian prisons and detention centers, despite having served their sentences. This was revealed during Gambo's visit to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) headquarters in Abuja. NiDCOM Media Officer, Violet Nwosu, reported that Gambo emphasized the significance of Nigerians' well-being abroad, which has been a priority since his appointment.

He also directed Nigerian associations in Saudi Arabia to unify under one umbrella to streamline communication and facilitate smoother engagement with the Embassy. Gambo highlighted the challenges faced by Nigerians in Saudi prisons, specifically those who had fulfilled their jail terms but were unable to return due to unpaid fines.

The ambassador noted that, contrary to popular belief, many successful Nigerians reside in Saudi Arabia, including professionals like doctors, engineers, teachers, and traders. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Consul General in Jeddah, Ambassador Muazam I.J. Nayaya, highlighted consular services as a significant challenge for the Nigerian Mission.

He explained that the Mission issues numerous emergency travel certificates daily for Nigerians in detention centers seeking return to Nigeria. Ambassador Dabiri-Erewa pledged NiDCOM's ongoing commitment to improving the welfare of Nigerians in Saudi Arabia and strengthening their engagement with the diaspora. She encouraged Nigerians in Saudi Arabia to register on the NiDCOM Diaspora Data Mapping Portal to aid the government in planning and engagement.