Nigeria’s access to a $602.95 million grant from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for 2025 is now uncertain due to allegations that the agency has been inadvertently funding Boko Haram. These claims originated from U.S. Congressman Scott Perry, who suggested that USAID’s funds might have been misused to support terrorist organizations, including Boko Haram. In response, the Nigerian Senate has summoned key security chiefs, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and the Directors-General of the National Intelligence Agency and the Department of State Services, to investigate the veracity of these allegations.
The U.S. Embassy in Nigeria has refuted these claims, stating there is no evidence to support the notion that USAID funds have been channeled to Boko Haram. U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, emphasized that comprehensive monitoring and evaluation systems are in place to ensure that U.S. assistance reaches its intended recipients. The embassy also reiterated America’s commitment to counterterrorism efforts in Nigeria and the broader region.
The Nigerian Senate’s decision to summon security chiefs underscores the seriousness with which the government is treating these allegations. Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, highlighted the monumental devastation caused by Boko Haram and stressed the urgent need to investigate any potential external funding sources that may be sustaining the group’s activities. The Senate aims to collaborate with relevant authorities to ascertain the truth and ensure that international aid is not misappropriated.
The potential suspension of the USAID grant could have significant implications for Nigeria’s development projects, particularly in health, education, and economic sectors that heavily rely on international aid. The Nigerian government may need to explore alternative funding sources or reallocate existing resources to mitigate the impact of any potential aid suspension.
As investigations proceed, both Nigerian and U.S. authorities are expected to collaborate closely to address these concerns. Ensuring transparency and accountability in the utilization of international aid remains paramount to maintaining the trust and effectiveness of such partnerships.
