US House approves measures to condition aid to Nigeria over Christian persecution concerns

These measures were adopted during the consideration of the fiscal 2027 State Department spending bill, which the House approved by a vote of 217-209. An amendment proposed by Republican Congressman Gregory Steube increased the proposed restriction on US aid from 50 percent to 100 percent, meaning all funds would be withheld until Nigeria meets specified conditions. The original provision sought to block half of US funding until the Secretary of State certifies that Nigeria has taken effective steps to prevent and respond to violence and hold perpetrators accountable.

Congressman Steube stated that his amendment aims to prevent American taxpayers from funding a government that he believes has failed to stop attacks against Christians. Another Republican lawmaker, Congressman Riley Moore, emphasized that the legislation links US assistance to measurable actions by Nigeria to protect Christians and address religious violence. The lawmakers argued that future US aid should depend on progress in protecting religious minorities, combating terrorism, and ensuring accountability for perpetrators of violence.

This measure still requires Senate approval and presidential assent to become law and does not immediately impact ongoing US assistance to Nigeria. This develo