The United States House of Representatives has approved a proposal to withhold 50 per cent of US assistance to Nigeria until the Federal Government demonstrates measurable progress in protecting Christian communities from religiously motivated violence.
The decision forms part of the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP) Appropriations Bill, which provides $47.32 billion in discretionary funding, representing a 6 per cent reduction from the FY2026 enacted level. Under the measure, the US Aid to Nigeria will remain partly suspended until the US Secretary of State certifies that Nigeria has taken effective steps to improve security and hold perpetrators accountable.
The accompanying committee report expressed concern over continued violence in Nigeria, including the Palm Sunday massacre, and urged the Federal Government to ensure justice for victims. Congressman Riley M. Moore, who championed the provision, said the measure aims to address what he described as the persecution of Christian communities.
“Christians in Nigeria continue to endure horrific violence, murder, and persecution while a majority of the world turns a blind eye to their suffering,” Moore said. “This bill sends a clear message that the United States will continue to stand with persecuted Christians across the globe, especially in Nigeria.”
The legislation also directs funding from the Security Sector Programme to help address attacks attributed to Fulani ethnic militia and wider insecurity in Nigeria’s Middle Belt. In addition, the US Secretary of State must assess whether the Nigerian government is supporting the safe return of internally displaced persons to their ancestral communities.
The bill further requires the State Department to submit reports to Congress within 45 to 60 days on efforts to reduce violence against Christians and improve accountability for violations of religious freedom. It also allocates an additional $2 million under the International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement account for atrocity prevention and law enforcement support.
Supporters of the measure said the conditions are intended to promote accountability and strengthen security institutions. The US Aid to Nigeria proposal also calls for improved police professionalism, greater protection for vulnerable religious minorities and an assessment of how Nigeria’s blasphemy laws affect religious freedom. The US Aid to Nigeria conditions will remain in place until the required certification is provided.
Do you think linking foreign assistance to measurable security reforms can help improve accountability and protect vulnerable communities?
