Senate Probes USAID Over Alleged Boko Haram Sponsorship: NSA, DSS, NIA, And DIA Chiefs Summoned

Senate Probes USAID Over Alleged Boko Haram Sponsorship: NSA, DSS, NIA, and DIA Chiefs Summoned

The Nigerian Senate has launched an in-depth investigation into allegations that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been indirectly funding Boko Haram. The Senate summoned key security figures, including National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS) Adeola Ajayi, Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed, and Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) Major General Emmanuel Undiandeye, for a closed-door session.

This action follows claims by U.S. Congressman Scott Perry, who alleged during a U.S. Subcommittee hearing that USAID has unintentionally funneled around $697 million annually to global terrorist groups, including Boko Haram. Though the U.S. Congress has initiated its own investigation, the Nigerian Senate deemed it necessary to conduct a parallel inquiry, given the potential implications for national security.

Security Concerns and Government Response

The Senate expressed deep concerns over Nigeria’s escalating insecurity and the mystery surrounding Boko Haram’s sustained operations. Senator Ali Ndume, who sponsored the motion, emphasized the devastating impact of the insurgency, particularly in northeastern Nigeria, and the need to trace its funding sources.

“The devastation caused by Boko Haram has been immense, leading to thousands of deaths, widespread destruction, and internal displacement,” Ndume stated. “Understanding their financial backing is crucial to dismantling their operations.”

Calls for Transparency and Caution

While the Senate pushes for transparency, Senate President Godswill Akpabio urged caution, warning against relying solely on unverified social media claims. He emphasized the importance of hearing directly from security agencies before making public judgments.

“Social media is rife with misinformation. We must base our decisions on verified intelligence,” Akpabio said.

However, Ndume countered Akpabio’s caution, pointing out that the allegations are not mere rumors but are under formal investigation by the U.S. Congress.

Presidential Involvement and Next Steps

President Bola Tinubu has also become involved, holding a private meeting with Senate President Akpabio at the Presidential Villa to discuss the matter. Although the details of the meeting remain confidential, it underscores the gravity of the allegations.

The Senate remains firm that if investigations confirm USAID’s involvement, Nigeria will reconsider the agency’s operations within its borders.

International Oversight and Monitoring

In response to these claims, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, stating that robust monitoring systems are in place to ensure U.S. assistance reaches its intended recipients.

As the investigation unfolds, Nigeria’s lawmakers and security agencies aim to uncover the truth and reinforce measures against foreign influence in domestic terrorism.

: United States Government Accountability Office (GAO) on Foreign Aid Transparency