The Senate has summoned National Security Adviser (NSA) Alhaji Nuhu Ribadu and the heads of key security agencies, including the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Department of State Services (DSS), and Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), to address allegations that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is funding Boko Haram.
The summons follows claims made by U.S. Republican Congressman Scott Perry, who alleged that USAID has been indirectly providing financial support to the terrorist group. The allegations have sparked widespread concern, given USAID’s long-standing role in humanitarian and developmental efforts in Nigeria.
During Wednesday’s Senate session, Senator Ali Ndume raised a point of order, stressing the national security implications of the claims and the need for thorough investigations to establish the facts. He emphasized that the Senate has a responsibility to work closely with intelligence agencies to ensure Nigeria’s sovereignty and security are not compromised.
Co-sponsoring the motion, Senator Abdul Ningi expressed deep concerns over the potential misuse of foreign aid in conflict zones, pointing out that while international assistance is crucial for development, it must not be exploited to fund insurgency and destabilize the nation.
In response to the motion, Senate President Godswill Akpabio questioned the continued presence of USAID in Nigeria if the organization is found to be complicit in any form of support for Boko Haram. He assured lawmakers that the Senate will engage with security agencies to get to the root of the matter and take appropriate actions based on their findings.
The security chiefs are expected to appear before the Senate for a closed-door session, where they will provide intelligence reports and clarifications on the allegations. The outcome of the session will likely determine Nigeria’s next course of action regarding its relationship with USAID and foreign aid programs operating in conflict-affected areas.
