ABUJA – The United States government is initiating an investigation into the utilization of past aid funds allocated to Nigeria and other nations. This action follows President’s decision on January 20, 2025, to temporarily suspend all foreign aid for 90 days. The suspension was implemented due to concerns regarding global instability and the alignment of aid programs with American interests.
This move comes in response to increasing demands for a thorough review of US Agency for International Development (USAID) health funds. Notably, Congressman Scott Perry recently alleged that USAID provided funding to terrorist organizations, including Boko Haram, during a subcommittee hearing.
Boko Haram, a terrorist group active in northeastern Nigeria, as well as Chad, Niger, northern Cameroon, and Mali, has been responsible for widespread violence in the region for over 15 years. The group’s attacks against police, armed forces, and civilians have resulted in tens of thousands of deaths.
The US Mission to Nigeria confirmed via X (formerly Twitter) that monitoring systems are in place to track past US government assistance. The Mission also reiterated its condemnation of the ongoing violence perpetrated by Boko Haram in Nigeria.
“Comprehensive monitoring and evaluation systems are in place to help verify that U.S. assistance reaches intended recipients. The United States condemns the violence and blatant disregard for human life perpetrated by Boko Haram and other terrorist groups in Nigeria and the region,” the Mission stated.
The US designated Boko Haram as a Foreign Terrorist Organization on November 14, 2013. This designation allows the US government to block the organization’s assets, disrupt fundraising efforts, prosecute members, and restrict their travel to the United States. The US Mission’s statement emphasized the country’s continued commitment to working with Nigeria and regional partners to combat terrorism.
BOKO HARAM: US to Investigate Past Aid to Nigeria Under Obama And Biden.
