The Nigerian Senate has summoned National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu, alongside the heads of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), over allegations that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is involved in terror financing.
The decision follows a motion by Senator Ali Ndume, who called for an urgent investigation into USAID’s alleged funding of terrorist groups, including Boko Haram. Lawmakers expressed concerns over a viral video in which U.S. Congressman Scott Perry accused USAID of providing financial support to terrorist organizations worldwide.
Concerns Over Humanitarian Aid Cuts
Adding to the controversy, humanitarian organizations that rely on USAID funding are now facing budget cuts due to the incoming U.S. administration’s decision to freeze foreign aid. Reports indicate that four days after Donald Trump’s return to office, on January 24, NGOs affiliated with USAID received letters instructing them to halt all programs funded by the agency.
Aid workers fear that this move will severely impact millions of vulnerable people as essential programs are discontinued. The Senate has vowed to thoroughly investigate the claims and ensure that foreign aid does not end up in the hands of terrorists.