The United States government is considering stricter conditions on financial assistance to Nigeria, with lawmakers proposing a 50 percent reduction in aid due to rising insecurity and concerns over religious violence.
The move is contained in the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Bill for 2027, currently before the United States House Committee on Appropriations. If passed, the legislation could significantly reduce billions of dollars earmarked for Nigeria’s development programmes for the 2027 to 2028 fiscal period.
Under the proposal, future US funding would be tied to measurable improvements in Nigeria’s security situation. The bill requires certification by the Secretary of State that the Nigerian government is taking concrete steps to prevent violence, prosecute offenders, support victims, and facilitate the safe return of displaced persons.
The legislation also reflects the foreign policy direction associated with Donald Trump, emphasizing accountability, religious freedom, and alignment with US strategic interests. It includes provisions that could impose visa restrictions on foreign officials linked to violations of religious freedom.
A key condition in the bill is that Nigeria must match US contributions dollar for dollar in certain programmes, reinforcing shared responsibility in addressing insecurity and humanitarian challenges.
Despite the proposed cuts, the bill recommends targeted funding to address violence in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region. Resources from a $235 million security programme pool may be redirected to tackle inility linked to armed groups and communal conflicts, particularly in states heavily affected by violence.
US lawmakers expressed deep concern over ongoing s, including incidents targeting religious communities, and urged the Nigerian government to strengthen protection for citizens and ensure accountability for perpetrators.
Additionally, the bill prioritizes continued support for religious freedom initiatives, humanitarian assistance, and law enforcement reforms. Funding is expected to support community-based programmes, improve crisis response systems, and enhance the capacity and professionalism of Nigerian security institutions.
If enacted, the proposal would mark a significant shift in US Nigeria relations, signaling a move toward conditional aid tied closely to governance, security performance, and human rights protections.
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