The Nigerian Senate has summoned National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, along with the heads of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), to address allegations of terror financing against the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
This decision follows a motion raised by Senator Ali Ndume, calling for an urgent investigation into claims made by U.S. Congressman Scott Perry in a viral video. Perry alleged that USAID has been involved in financing terrorist organizations globally, including Nigeria’s Boko Haram.
During the plenary, lawmakers expressed alarm over these accusations, particularly in light of recent concerns raised by Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa. Musa had previously warned that international organizations were sponsoring and training terrorist groups in Nigeria.
The controversy comes amid significant changes to USAID’s operations under the Trump administration. Following Donald Trump’s return to power, aid funding was temporarily frozen, leading to budget cuts for NGOs linked to the agency. Although some activities resumed under revised terms, NGOs reported confusion and disruption in their operations.
The situation has also drawn criticism from figures like Elon Musk, who labeled USAID a “criminal organization,” and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, now serving as its acting director, has pledged to reform the agency.
Global NGOs have warned that these developments could undermine humanitarian efforts and erode U.S. influence worldwide.