CSOs call for Processes to Strengthen Engagement in Asset Restitution, Monitoring
By: Femi Mustapha
The Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ) recently held a two-day workshop in Asaba, Delta State, aimed at enhancing the capacity of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in their engagement with the government regarding asset restitution and monitoring.
Supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), this workshop seeks to promote transparency, accountability, and public trust in asset restitution processes.
In his welcome address, the Executive Director of ANEEJ, Rev. David Ugolor, said Nigeria loses billions of dollars each year to illicit financial flows, including corruption, tax evasion, and money laundering.
These activities weaken institutions and deprive citizens of essential services. Despite these challenges, Nigeria has made strides in recovering assets from both domestic and foreign jurisdictions. Notable recoveries include $954,807.40 from the United States and £4,214,017.68 from the United Kingdom.
The workshop is designed to build the capacity of CSOs to understand the legal and policy frameworks surrounding asset restitution and management. It aims to develop practical monitoring and advocacy tools while encouraging collaboration with government agencies.
The workshop emphasized the necessity for CSOs to be strategically positioned to engage with the federal government in asset restitution, return, and management processes
This is crucial for ensuring that recovered assets benefit the victims of corruption and are utilized for the country’s development.
The objectives of the workshop include:
Enhancing CSOs’ understanding of legal and policy frameworks related to asset restitution and management, developing practical tools for CSOs to track returned assets and promote public accountability, and fostering partnerships between CSOs and government agencies in asset restitution processes.
This workshop reflects ANEEJ’s commitment to promoting transparency and accountability in asset restitution and management.
By empowering CSOs, the initiative aims to ensure that recovered assets are utilized for the benefit of Nigerians and contribute to the country’s development.
