Has the West been funding the de-stabilization of Nigeria?
U.S. Congressman Scott Perry recently alleged that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been channeling funds to Boko Haram and other terrorist organizations, claiming that "$697 million annually" is directed to these groups. However, these assertions require credible evidence and have so far been firmly refuted by U.S. officials.
U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills Jr., categorically denied these allegations, emphasizing that the United States has been a staunch opponent of Boko Haram's activities. He stated, "We have policies and procedures in place to ensure that USAID funding...is not diverted to a terrorist group like Boko Haram." Ambassador Mills further affirmed that there is "absolutely no evidence" supporting claims of such fund diversion.
USAID operates under stringent oversight mechanisms designed to prevent aid diversion to unintended recipients. These include rigorous partner vetting, third-party monitoring, and regular financial audits. A recent advisory from the USAID Office of Inspector General highlighted challenges due to staffing reductions and funding pauses but did not indicate any diversion of funds to terrorist organizations.
Opinions have been split amongst Nigerians in the diaspora as to the credibility of the Scott Perry claims.
For it’s part, the Nigerian House of Representatives has initiated an investigation to examine the activities of non-governmental organizations operating within the country, aiming to verify the sources and utilization of their funding.
In summary, the allegations made by Congressman Perry still require substantiation. Both U.S. and Nigerian authorities have dismissed these claims, reaffirming their commitment to ensuring that aid funds are utilized appropriately and do not support terrorist activities, but many are yet to be convinced.
PSJUK will be hosting a debate that dives deeper and delves further to establish what role the west in playing in Nigeria’s security.
