The United States House of Representatives has approved an amendment that would suspend 100 percent of U.S. taxpayer-funded assistance to Nigeria until the U.S. Secretary of State certifies that the Nigerian government has taken effective steps to prevent religious violence and hold perpetrators accountable.
The amendment, sponsored by Republican Congressman Greg Steube of Florida, was adopted by voice vote and attached to the Fiscal Year 2027 State Department appropriations bill, which later passed the House by a 217–209 vote.
If enacted into law, the measure would require the Secretary of State to certify that Nigeria has made meaningful progress in addressing violence against Christians and other religious minorities before U.S. assistance can resume.
According to Rep. Steube, the amendment was introduced in response to years of attacks on Christian communities and other religious minorities in parts of Nigeria.
“American taxpayers should never bankroll a government that looks away while Christians are abducted, tortured, and killed,” Steube said in a statement, arguing that U.S. foreign aid should be conditioned on measurable improvements in security and accountability.
The legislation increases an earlier proposal that sought to withhold 50 percent of U.S. assistance, raising the threshold to 100 percent while retaining the same certification requirements.
The proposal comes amid continuing international concern over insecurity in Nigeria. The United Nations has reported widespread displacement caused by armed groups, including mass kidnappings and attacks in parts of the North-West, while violence in the North-Central region has also forced many communities from their homes.
The amendment still requires approval by the U.S. Senate. If passed by the Senate and signed by the U.S. President, it would become law and take effect.
The Nigerian government has not yet issued an official response to the House’s action.
The development is expected to generate renewed debate over Nigeria’s security challenges, religious freedom, and the future of U.S.–Nigeria diplomatic and development relations.
