The United States House of Representatives has approved a spending bill for the 2027 fiscal year that seeks to stop all foreign assistance to Nigeria until the American government confirms that enough is being done to protect Christians and other vulnerable groups from violent attacks.
The bill was passed with a vote of 217 to 209 under the National Security, Department of State and Related Programs Appropriations Act for the 2027 fiscal year.
According to the proposed legislation, all US foreign assistance to Nigeria would remain suspended until the US certifies that the Nigerian government has taken effective steps to improve the safety of Christian communities affected by religious violence.
The bill also includes support for religious freedom programmes in other countries and protections for faith-based organisations involved in delivering foreign aid.
The measure was promoted by Republican lawmakers led by Riley Moore, with support from Florida lawmaker Jeff Steube.
The proposal was first introduced in April.
During the debate, Moore argued that the restriction would encourage the Nigerian government to improve the protection of Christians, especially in parts of the Middle Belt where attacks have been linked to armed groups.
He said the move was in line with the Trump administration’s approach of supporting Nigeria while tying assistance to better protection of vulnerable communities.
The original proposal suggested withholding 50 per cent of US assistance to Nigeria.
However, Steube introduced an amendment seeking a complete suspension of all assistance instead.
He argued that reducing aid by only half would still allow the Nigerian government to benefit despite concerns over insecurity.
The House accepted the amendment, increasing the restriction from 50 per cent to 100 per cent.
The bill forms part of wider discussions in the United States over religious freedom and the treatment of faith communities in different countries.
Supporters of the measure believe Nigeria should face stronger conditions before receiving American assistance.
