Nigeria’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Dr Yakubu Gambo, has raised concerns over Nigerians who remain in Saudi prisons and detention centres despite completing their jail terms because they cannot afford to pay outstanding fines.

Gambo disclosed this during a meeting with the Chairman and CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, in Abuja.

According to the ambassador, the Nigerian Mission in Saudi Arabia is working to address the challenges faced by Nigerians in the Kingdom, particularly those in detention who are unable to return home after serving their sentences.

He also revealed that the mission had asked Nigerian associations in Saudi Arabia to unite under a single umbrella to improve coordination and make it easier for the embassy to address issues affecting Nigerians in the country.

Gambo stressed that Nigerians in Saudi Arabia should not be viewed mainly through the lens of criminal cases, noting that many have built successful careers and businesses in the Kingdom.

He said Nigerian doctors, engineers, teachers, artisans and traders, as well as families who have lived in Saudi Arabia for decades, continue to make positive contributions to the country.

Nigeria’s Consul General in Jeddah, Ambassador Muazam I.J. Nayaya, identified consular services as another major challenge. He said officials issue dozens of emergency travel certificates daily to Nigerians in detention who are seeking to return home.

Responding, Dabiri-Erewa assured the delegation that NiDCOM would continue working with the Nigerian Mission to improve the welfare of Nigerians in Saudi Arabia.

She also encouraged Nigerians in the Kingdom to register on NiDCOM’s Diaspora Data Mapping Portal to help the government improve planning and engagement with citizens abroad.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the interests and welfare of Nigerians in Saudi Arabia while strengthening their contribution to Nigeria’s development.