U.S. Proposes Stricter Aid Conditions for Nigeria

The U.S. House Appropriations Committee has passed a provision in its annual State Department funding bill that imposes stricter oversight conditions on financial assistance to Nigeria.

This measure, part of the fiscal year 2027 National Security Department State-related program appropriations, was approved on Wednesday. Lawmakers, including Rilei Moor, criticized President Bola Tinubu's administration for allegedly failing to adequately address widespread violence against Christians, including attacks by Fulani ethnic militias and jihadist groups.

The bill proposes that 50% of U.S. financial aid to Nigeria will be withheld until the Secretary of State certifies that the Nigerian government has taken effective steps to curb religious violence and hold perpetrators accountable. The legislation also mandates that Nigeria match U.S. spending on programs, and it places Nigeria on a special watchlist requiring congressional scrutiny for every dollar spent.

This move reflects ongoing concerns regarding religious violence in Nigeria, particularly against Christians.