The Nigerian Senate has summoned top intelligence and security officials to investigate allegations that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been funding terrorist groups, including Boko Haram. The claims were made by U.S. Congressman Perry Scott, sparking concerns about foreign involvement in Nigeria’s security challenges.
The decision to summon security chiefs followed a motion of urgent national security raised under Order 41 by Senator Mohammed Ndume (Borno South) during Wednesday’s Senate session.
Ndume urged lawmakers to take the matter seriously, noting that Boko Haram’s reign of terror has devastated Nigeria, especially the Northeast. He stressed that uncovering the truth about these allegations would help clarify how terrorist groups have managed to survive for so long.
Security Chiefs to Provide a Private Briefing
The Senate directed intelligence agencies, including the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), Department of State Services (DSS), and the National Security Adviser (NSA), to provide a comprehensive report on the matter.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio backed the resolution but emphasized the need for confidentiality.
“Security matters are best handled behind closed doors,” Akpabio said. “Our intelligence chiefs will provide us with a clearer perspective in a private briefing.”
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Closed-Door Session Proposed for Sensitive Information
Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central), a co-sponsor of the motion, proposed an amendment to first hold a private briefing before discussing the allegations in public.
“At this point, whatever is written here is relevant. However, it is almost impossible to do justice to the issues raised in this motion in an open debate,” Ningi said.
He explained that a closed-door session would allow security officials to share classified intelligence, preventing public panic and misinformation.
“We do not need an elaborate discussion on this matter; we need to be briefed by security agencies first in a closed-door session,” he added. “Let’s focus on one key action—inviting the NSA, the DG of NIA, and the DSS for a confidential session with the Senate on this matter. This is their duty; this is what they are funded to do. With the security chiefs’ briefing, we can proceed based on the facts they provide.”
Concerns Over Foreign Influence in Nigeria’s Security
The allegations have raised concerns over the possible role of international organizations in Nigeria’s security crisis. If the claims are confirmed, it could strain diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the United States.
Boko Haram has terrorized Nigeria for over a decade, displacing millions and causing thousands of deaths. The group has been responsible for bombings, kidnappings, and attacks on civilians, particularly in the Northeast.
The Senate’s investigation aims to clarify whether USAID funds have been misused or diverted to terrorist activities. The findings from the intelligence briefing will determine the next course of action.