U.S. Proposes Stricter Conditions on Nigeria Aid

The U.S. House Appropriations Committee has introduced new conditions to tighten oversight on financial assistance to Nigeria as part of the Fiscal Year 2027 State Department and National Security Appropriations Bill.

Lawmakers, including Rilei Moor, expressed concerns regarding the handling of insecurity under President Bola Tinubu, particularly the violence affecting Christian communities. The proposal suggests withholding 50% of funds allocated to Nigeria's foreign assistance programs until the U.S.

Secretary of State certifies that the Nigerian government has taken effective steps to address the crisis. These steps include preventing and responding to violence, prosecuting perpetrators, supporting victims, and ensuring the safe return and resettlement of displaced persons.

The bill also mandates U.S. assistance to support investigations into attacks by armed groups and improve accountability within Nigeria's security forces. Nigeria is expected to match U.S. funding to the maximum extent practicable.

This proposal follows earlier actions by the Trump administration in 2025, placing Nigeria on a special watchlist for religious persecution concerns.