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The United States House of Representatives has approved an amendment seeking to withhold 100 per cent of U.S. assistance to Nigeria until the Federal Government demonstrates measurable progress in addressing violence against Christians and holding perpetrators accountable. The amendment, sponsored by Congressman Greg Steube, was adopted by a voice vote and incorporated into the Fiscal Year 2027 State Department Appropriations Bill, replacing an earlier proposal that sought to withhold 50 per cent of U.S. aid.
According to Steube, American taxpayer funds should not support governments that fail to protect citizens from religiously motivated violence. The amendment requires the U.S. Secretary of State to certify that Nigeria has taken effective steps to prevent attacks, prosecute offenders and improve protections for affected communities before assistance can be released. Although the U.S. House has approved the measure, it has not yet become law. It must still be considered by the U.S. Senate, reconciled with any Senate version, and signed by the U.S. President before taking effect.
The proposal comes amid ongoing international scrutiny of insecurity in Nigeria, particularly attacks linked to terrorist groups and armed criminal gangs. Nigerian authorities have consistently maintained that the country’s security challenges affect people of different faiths and ethnic backgrounds, rather than targeting one religious group alone. The outcome of the U.S. legislative process will determine whether the proposed aid restrictions are ultimately implemented.
