US House Backs Full Aid Restriction Proposal for Nigeria Over Security Concerns
The House has adopted a legislative amendment proposed by Representative Gregory Steube, increasing the withholding of US financial aid to Nigeria from 50% to 100%. This move, passed by a voice vote, is contingent on the Nigerian government taking effective steps to address widespread violence and persecution. Steube argued that continued aid to a government failing to protect its citizens and uphold human rights is unacceptable and impractical.
The United States House of Representatives has adopted an amendment seeking to withhold 100 per cent of designated financial assistance to Nigeria unless the Federal Government meets specific security and accountability benchmarks.
The measure, sponsored by Representative Gregory Steube, increases an earlier proposal that sought to withhold 50 per cent of the funds. Under the amendment, the US Secretary of State must certify that Nigeria has taken effective steps to prevent violence, protect its citizens, and hold perpetrators accountable before the funds can be released.
Speaking in support of the proposal, Steube argued that partially withholding aid would amount to rewarding the Nigerian government despite what he described as its failure to adequately address widespread insecurity.
He cited persistent violence affecting religious communities, including attacks on Christians and other minorities, as well as incidents of abduction, killings, and the destruction of places of worship.
The congressman maintained that American taxpayer funds should not support governments that fail to uphold religious freedom or effectively combat terrorism and violent extremism.
The amendment forms part of growing scrutiny in Washington over Nigeria's security challenges and human rights record. While the measure establishes strict conditions for the release of designated assistance, it places the responsibility on the Nigerian government to demonstrate measurable progress in protecting citizens and addressing violence.
Its adoption signals increasing pressure from US lawmakers for greater accountability in the country's security response.