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

Nigerians are facing prolonged detention in Saudi Arabia, with some remaining in prisons and detention centers long after serving their sentences because they cannot afford to pay outstanding fines. This critical issue was highlighted by Nigeria's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Dr. Yakubu Gambo.

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We are also confronted with challenges involving Nigerians in prisons and detention centres, including those who have completed their jail terms but are unable to return home because of outstanding fines.

During a meeting at the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) headquarters in Abuja, Ambassador Gambo detailed the challenges confronting Nigerians in the Kingdom. He noted that the inability to settle fines is a significant barrier preventing individuals from returning home after completing their legally mandated jail terms.

Ambassador Gambo also addressed the need for better organization among Nigerian diaspora groups in Saudi Arabia. He stated that the Nigerian Mission has directed various Nigerian associations to unite under a single umbrella. This consolidation aims to foster unity and enable the Embassy to engage more effectively with the diaspora community on matters affecting them.

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The mission has directed the various Nigerian groups to organise themselves under one umbrella body to foster unity and enable the Embassy to engage meaningfully and effectively in addressing any diaspora issue.

Contrary to some perceptions, the ambassador stressed that not all Nigerians in Saudi Arabia are involved in criminal cases. He pointed out that many contribute positively to the Kingdom's economy and society, working as doctors, engineers, teachers, artisans, and traders, with some families having resided there for decades. The Nigerian Consul General in Jeddah, Ambassador Muazam I.J. Nayaya, also mentioned that consular services are a major challenge, with officials issuing dozens of emergency travel certificates daily to Nigerians in detention seeking to return home.

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The ambassador noted that contrary to perceptions that Nigerians in Saudi Arabia were predominantly associated with criminal cases, the Kingdom is also home to many Nigerians who have built successful careers and businesses.