Mathew Amaechi
Richard Mills, the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, has firmly refuted claims that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is financing Boko Haram or any other terrorist organizations in the country.
Speaking to journalists after a meeting with the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) in Abuja, Ambassador Mills emphasized the United States’ commitment to Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
“The United States categorically rejects any claims that it funds Boko Haram or any terrorist organization in Nigeria,” Mills stated. “We stand with the Nigerian government and its people in their fight against terrorism and are committed to supporting efforts to eliminate the threat posed by Boko Haram and other extremist groups.”
These remarks come in response to allegations made by U.S. Congressman Scott Perry, who suggested that USAID funds were being diverted to terrorist groups, including Boko Haram. Perry, a Republican from Pennsylvania, claimed during a subcommittee hearing that $697 million annually was being misused to finance such organizations.
Ambassador Mills addressed these allegations directly, stating, “We have strict policies and procedures to ensure that USAID funding or any other U.S. assistance is not diverted to terrorist groups like Boko Haram. There is absolutely no evidence of such diversion.”
The Nigerian Senate has taken the allegations seriously, inviting security and intelligence chiefs to investigate the claims. Senator Ali Ndume described the accusations as “weighty and worrisome,” urging a thorough investigation to verify their veracity.
Boko Haram, which began its insurgency in 2009, has been responsible for the deaths of thousands and the displacement of millions, particularly in Nigeria’s northeast region. USAID has been actively involved in providing humanitarian aid, stabilization efforts, and support for displaced persons in the region.
Ambassador Mills reiterated the United States’ dedication to Nigeria’s security, stating, “When it comes to Boko Haram, the United States stands with Nigeria in wanting to rid this country of the scourge that this organization represents.”
As the situation develops, both nations continue to collaborate closely to combat terrorism and ensure the effective use of aid resources.
