U.S. Allocates $27 Million to Address Humanitarian Crisis in Nigeria

The United States has announced a significant $27 million aid package to help combat the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Nigeria. This funding is part of a broader $536 million humanitarian aid initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable populations across Sub-Saharan Africa. The U.S. Mission in Nigeria shared this development on Tuesday, underscoring the American government’s commitment to providing life-saving assistance to those in need. U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, emphasized the importance of this aid, stating, "This assistance will make a real difference in the lives of those most in need in Nigeria and across the continent." The U.S. government’s support comes at a critical time as Nigeria faces challenges such as food insecurity and the adverse effects of climate change. The comprehensive aid package, which was officially announced by Uzra Zeya, the Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, brings the total U.S. humanitarian assistance to Sub-Saharan Africa for Fiscal Year 2024 to nearly $3.7 billion.

The funds are designated to address the pressing needs of vulnerable groups, including refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons, and others affected by conflict. The aid will focus on crisis regions like the Sahel and will support efforts to build durable solutions, including voluntary returns and refugee integration.

The $27 million allocated to Nigeria will be managed through the State Department’s Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration, as well as USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance. These funds aim to bolster Nigeria’s capacity to support its most vulnerable citizens and enhance resilience against the impacts of food insecurity and climate change. Ambassador Mills reiterated the United States’ solidarity with Nigeria, stating, "We stand with Nigeria in its efforts to provide for vulnerable populations and build resilience against food insecurity and climate change impacts."