A U.S. congressional committee has approved provisions that could restrict future aid to Nigeria, tightening oversight over security concerns and alleged religious violence.
The measures are contained in the Fiscal Year 2027 State Department funding bill and would place conditions on disbursement of U.S. assistance pending certification that the Nigerian government is taking effective steps to prevent violence, protect civilians, and hold perpetrators accountable.
Under the proposal, 50 percent of aid allocated to Nigeria could be withheld until compliance is confirmed, with requirements also covering support for displaced persons, reconstruction of affected communities, and strengthened accountability within the security sector.
The bill further calls for U.S.-funded programmes to prioritise investigations and prosecutions of violent actors, humanitarian delivery, and reintegration efforts, while introducing a cost-matching requirement for Nigerian government participation where feasible.
It also places Nigeria under enhanced congressional oversight, requiring advance notification before any aid is released once the legislation is enacted.
If passed, Nigeria would join countries subject to stricter monitoring of U.S. assistance, including Ukraine, Iraq, and Pakistan.
The proposal still requires approval by the full U.S. Congress and presidential assent before it becomes law.
