By Ifeoluwa Odunayo
U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., has dismissed allegations that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), funded Boko Haram, calling the claims baseless and without evidence.
Speaking after a meeting with the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) in Abuja, Mills reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts and challenged anyone with proof of misappropriation to present it for investigation.
He assured that any credible claims would be addressed in collaboration with Nigerian authorities.
Clarifying U.S. financial aid, Mills stated that funding had not been cut but placed under a 90-day review to enhance effectiveness and policy alignment.
However, humanitarian assistance, including support for HIV treatment, maternal health, and displaced persons, remains unaffected through approved waivers.
He also highlighted the transition of U.S.-backed healthcare programs to Nigerian authorities, ensuring sustainability amid the country’s evolving fiscal landscape following the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy.
