- The US House Appropriations Committee has passed provisions that would withhold 50% of financial assistance for Nigeria’s central government until specific security and religious freedom conditions are met.
- If signed into law, Nigeria will join a special watchlist alongside countries like Pakistan and Sudan, requiring the US government to provide a 15-day advance notice to Congress before any money is spent in the country.
- The bill demands that the Nigerian government take “effective steps” to prosecute perpetrators of religious violence, including Fulani militia and jihadist groups, and facilitate the safe return of displaced persons.
- The proposed legislation stipulates that Nigerian assistance be provided on a “cost-matching basis,” requiring the Nigerian government to contribute matching funds for US-sponsored programs.
Nigerian financial aid from the United States faces significant new hurdles following the passage of the Fiscal Year 2027 National Security and State Department appropriations bill by the US House Appropriations Committee on Wednesday.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the bill introduces stringent oversight measures, citing concerns over the Tinubu administration’s handling of religious violence and attacks against civilians by militant groups.
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The legislation does not earmark a specific total for Nigeria but applies conditions to funds drawn from broader pools, such as the $1.66 billion allocated for International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement and $870 million for anti-terrorism programs.
Under the new rules, half of the funds for the Nigerian government will be frozen until the US Secretary of State certifies that the country is actively responding to violence, holding perpetrators accountable, and prioritizing the resettlement of internally displaced persons.
Furthermore, Nigeria has been designated for a special watchlist under Section 7015.
This status mandates an elevated level of congressional scrutiny, placing Nigeria in a category of high-risk nations where every dollar spent must be reported to US lawmakers at least 15 days in advance.
The bill emphasizes “atrocities prevention” and the advancement of religious freedom. It specifically calls for investigations into violence committed by Fulani militia groups and jihadist terror organizations.
To ensure bilateral commitment, the US intends to provide this aid on a cost-matching basis, expecting the Nigerian government to allocate its own resources toward these security and humanitarian goals.
The move follows President Donald Trump’s November 2025 designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern”. Committee member Riley Moore criticized the Nigerian administration, alleging it spends millions on lobbying while failing to stop daily violence against Christians.
While the Nigerian Federal Government has consistently denied claims of state-sanctioned religious persecution and maintains ongoing security collaboration with the US, this bill represents a significant tightening of the diplomatic and financial relationship.
The legislation now awaits full congressional approval and a presidential signature to become effective.
