US House Passes Bill Cutting All Nigeria Aid Until Christian Protection Verified
The US House of Representatives passed a fiscal year 2027 spending bill on Wednesday (July 15, 2026) by a 217-209 vote that would cut all foreign assistance to Nigeria until the US certifies the government is protecting Christians from violence. The bill, pushed by Republican lawmakers Riley Moore and Jeff Steube, demands measurable action against groups like Fulani Islamist terrorists in the Middle Belt.
This threatens $413.046 million in annual US counter-insurgency funding for Nigeria, which supports joint operations against groups like ISWAP - including the recent operation that eliminated commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki. While the Nigerian government and rights groups dispute claims of Christian-targeted genocide, saying violence affects all faiths, the bill reflects ongoing US congressional pressure tied to religious freedom concerns.
The measure still requires Senate approval and President Trump's signature to become law. Previously, the Trump administration paused then partially restored aid focused on counter-terror operations. With aid potentially cut entirely, Nigerians should monitor Senate proceedings and consider how reduced US security cooperation might affect local counter-insurgency efforts and humanitarian programs.