House panel advances bill demanding accountability, prosecutions, and protection of vulnerable communities before security funds are released

The United States House Appropriations Committee has moved to impose tougher conditions on security assistance to Nigeria, advancing a State Department funding bill that links aid to progress in addressing violence against Christian communities.

The move reflects growing concern among U.S. lawmakers over persistent insecurity in parts of Nigeria, particularly the Middle Belt, where attacks have been attributed to a mix of ethnic militias, criminal gangs, and jihadist groups.

Congressman Riley Moore, a key backer of the measure, criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for what he described as an inadequate response to the crisis. He argued that the proposed legislation is intended to ensure accountability and compel decisive action.

“This bill takes serious steps to address this crisis,” Moore said, stressing that the United States would not ignore what he called the “brutal persecution” of Christian communities in Nigeria.

Under the proposed framework, Nigeria would be required to demonstrate clear, measurable progress in curbing violence, prosecuting those responsible, and providing support for displaced persons before certain security funds can be accessed.

The bill also assigns the U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, the responsibility of assessing Nigeria’s compliance, while strengthening congressional oversight of how the funds are utilized.

Although the legislation still needs full congressional approval, its passage could significantly alter U.S.–Nigeria security cooperation and intensify diplomatic pressure on Abuja to address longstanding concerns over insecurity and religious freedom.