International Anti-Corruption Law and the Recovery of Stolen Assets: Lessons for Nigeria from the UNCAC Framework

This research examines the legal mechanisms available for recovering stolen assets under the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) and their relevance to Nigeria's ongoing efforts to repatriate funds illicitly transferred abroad by public officials. Nigeria has been a prominent case in the global discourse on corruption and asset recovery, with billions of dollars of public funds allegedly diverted over successive administrations. Using a library-based doctrinal research approach, this study analyses UNCAC's asset recovery provisions, particularly Chapter V, and evaluates Nigeria's implementation of these obligations through its domestic anti-corruption agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC). The paper surveys recent cases involving asset recovery negotiations with Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States, assessing the legal instruments and mutual legal assistance treaties that have been invoked. Findings indicate that despite notable successes, Nigeria's asset recovery efforts are impeded by slow judicial processes, inadequate documentation of assets, and political interference in investigations. The study also considers the role of civil society and international financial institutions in pressuring jurisdictions that serve as repositories for stolen funds. Recommendations focus on legislative reform, enhanced inter-agency coordination, and greater commitment to UNCAC's implementation review mechanism at the domestic level. Keywords: UNCAC, asset recovery, corruption, EFCC, Nigeria.