The United States House Appropriations Committee has approved a foreign assistance bill that could tighten conditions for funding to Nigeria, citing rising concerns over insecurity and accountability.
The proposal, part of the Fiscal Year 2027 funding plan for the United States Department of State and related programmes, seeks to withhold 50 per cent of US aid to Nigeria until set conditions are met.
Under the measure, full assistance would only be released after the State Department confirms that Nigeria is taking effective steps to curb violence, protect civilians, and ensure accountability for abuses.
Lawmakers said the move follows persistent attacks linked to militant groups and growing concerns about the safety of vulnerable communities, including religious groups.
The bill also urges the Nigerian government to prioritise support for victims of violence, especially internally displaced persons, and to enable safe returns and rebuilding of affected communities.
It introduces a matching-fund requirement, requiring Nigeria to commit equivalent resources to US-backed programmes. It also calls for investigations and prosecutions of individuals connected to armed groups.
If passed, Nigeria would face stricter congressional oversight, with the US administration required to notify Congress at least 15 days before releasing funds.
A committee statement said the measures aim to hold foreign governments accountable for protecting citizens, adding that aid would remain restricted until measurable progress is achieved.
The broader appropriations bill allocates about $47.32 billion for foreign aid and diplomacy, marking a roughly six per cent drop from the previous year. It also covers national security, counter-terrorism, and international law enforcement, with part of the funding set aside for Africa.
However, the proposal has not yet become law. It still requires approval from both chambers of the United States Congress and the president’s assent.
Nigeria has repeatedly rejected claims that its violence is driven by religious persecution, insisting the crisis stems from a mix of terrorism, banditry, and communal clashes.
The bill signals a shift towards tighter US oversight of foreign aid, especially for countries facing prolonged security challenges, and could reshape relations if enacted.
