The allegation, made by US Congressman Scott Perry, suggests that the US Agency for International Development (USAID) channeled taxpayer money to extremist groups, including Boko Haram.

In a statement on the X social media platform, the US Mission in Nigeria emphasised its commitment to ensuring that aid reaches its intended recipients through strict monitoring and evaluation measures.

The statement reaffirmed the US government’s strong condemnation of Boko Haram and other terrorist groups, adding that the US remains committed to working with Nigeria and regional partners in the fight against terrorism.

Perry’s claims come in the wake of President Donald Trump’s decision to freeze USAID funding to foreign countries, including Nigeria. Trump, who suspended the program in January over alleged corruption, has received backing from Perry, who accused USAID of spending over $600 million annually on organisations linked to terrorism.

Lawmakers are calling for a thorough investigation, stressing that such serious allegations cannot be ignored.

Nigeria has battled Boko Haram insurgency for 16 years, with military authorities previously alleging that the group benefits from foreign funding.

Boko Haram has been responsible for thousands of deaths and the displacement of over two million people, particularly in the northeast.

--Reuters--