The United States is considering a major shift in its relationship with Nigeria, with lawmakers proposing to withhold half of the country’s aid unless clear progress is made on security and accountability.
The move, backed by the US House Appropriations Committee, forms part of the Fiscal Year 2027 foreign assistance budget and reflects mounting concern in Washington over persistent violence across Africa’s most populous nation.
Aid tied to performance
At the heart of the proposal is a strict condition: Nigeria must demonstrate “effective steps” in tackling insecurity, protecting civilians, and prosecuting those responsible for attacks before 50 per cent of allocated funds can be released.
This marks a significant departure from previous support models, introducing a performance-based framework that could reshape how aid is delivered.
Lawmakers say the measure responds to ongoing attacks by militant groups and violence affecting vulnerable communities, particularly in rural and conflict-prone regions.
Pressure on Nigeria’s finances
Beyond security benchmarks, the proposal introduces a dollar-for-dollar funding requirement. This means Nigeria would need to match US contributions to benefit fully from supported programmes, a condition likely to strain public finances.
The bill also urges Nigerian authorities to prioritise assistance for internally displaced persons and ensure the safe return and rebuilding of affected communities.
Focus on accountability
A key element of the legislation is accountability. It calls for thorough investigations and prosecutions linked to armed groups, signalling that impunity will no longer be tolerated under US-backed programmes.
In addition, the US administration would be required to notify Congress at least 15 days before releasing any funds to Nigeria, placing the country under tighter scrutiny.
A committee statement emphasised the goal of holding governments accountable for failing to protect vulnerable populations, including those facing religious persecution.
Despite its implications, the proposal is still far from final. It must pass both chambers of Congress and receive presidential approval before taking effect.
Nigeria has consistently rejected claims that its security challenges are rooted in religious persecution, maintaining that the crisis is driven by a complex mix of terrorism, banditry, and communal clashes.
If passed, the measure could redefine US–Nigeria relations, shifting from broad support to conditional engagement. It also sends a clear signal that future assistance may depend less on diplomacy and more on measurable results.
