The United States House Appropriations Committee has approved a foreign assistance bill that could significantly tighten conditions for financial support to Nigeria, reflecting growing concern in Washington over insecurity and accountability.
The proposed legislation, part of the Fiscal Year 2027 funding package for the State Department and related programmes, introduces measures that would withhold 50 per cent of US aid to Nigeria until specific conditions are met.
Under the bill, assistance would only be fully released after the United States Department of State certifies that Nigeria is taking “effective steps” to curb violence, protect civilians and ensure accountability for abuses.
Lawmakers said the move is in response to persistent attacks linked to militant groups and rising concerns over the safety of vulnerable communities, including religious groups.
The proposal also requires the Nigerian government to prioritise support for victims of violence, particularly internally displaced persons, and to facilitate the safe return and rebuilding of affected communities.
In addition, the bill introduces a matching-fund requirement, mandating Nigeria to commit equivalent financial resources to programmes supported by the United States.
It further calls for investigations and prosecutions of individuals linked to armed groups, as part of broader accountability measures.
If passed into law, Nigeria would also be subjected to enhanced congressional oversight, with the US administration required to notify Congress at least 15 days before committing funds to the country.
A committee statement said the provisions are intended to “hold foreign governments accountable” for protecting citizens, adding that aid would remain restricted until “measurable actions” are taken.
The wider appropriations bill allocates about $47.32 billion for foreign aid and diplomacy, representing a reduction of roughly six per cent compared to the previous year. It also includes funding for national security programmes, counter-terrorism efforts and international law enforcement initiatives, with a portion designated for Africa.
However, the proposal is yet to become law. It must still be approved by both chambers of the United States Congress and signed by the president.
Nigeria has previously rejected suggestions that violence in the country is driven by religious persecution, maintaining that the security challenges stem from a complex mix of terrorism, banditry and communal conflicts.
The bill nonetheless signals a shift towards stricter US oversight of foreign aid, particularly for countries grappling with prolonged security crises, and could redefine bilateral engagement if eventually enacted.
