The United States has firmly denied allegations that funds from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) are being diverted to Boko Haram or any other terrorist group.
Speaking after a meeting with the Nigeria Governors Forum in Abuja, US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, dismissed the claims and reassured Nigerians that strict controls are in place to prevent any misuse of aid funds.
"Let me be clear—there is no friend of Nigeria stronger in condemning Boko Haram’s violence than the United States. We have designated Boko Haram as a foreign terrorist organisation since 2013, blocking the group from transferring assets to the US," Mills stated.
The controversy arose after US Congressman Scott Perry alleged during a congressional hearing on February 13 that USAID funds were indirectly reaching terrorist groups, including Boko Haram. Perry claimed that approximately "$697 million annually" was being misused.
In response to the claims, the Nigerian Senate called on the National Security Adviser and intelligence agencies to investigate the matter and ensure that no funds were being diverted to extremist groups.
Ambassador Mills emphasized that the US would fully cooperate with Nigerian authorities if any evidence of misuse ever surfaced.
"We cooperate in investigations with the Nigerian government. If we ever had evidence that programme funding was being misused, we would immediately investigate it," he affirmed.
Mills also addressed concerns about a possible reduction in US aid to Nigeria. He clarified that the US government is conducting a 90-day review of its aid programs to ensure their effectiveness, not to withdraw support.
He further outlined four key areas of US engagement in Nigeria: improving trade, enhancing transparency, strengthening local governance, and sustaining healthcare programs.
The US has reiterated its commitment to supporting Nigeria in its fight against terrorism and ensuring that all aid is used for its intended purpose.
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