Nigeria ranked among the top five recipients of United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funding in Africa for 2023, receiving approximately $824 million (₦1.23 trillion at an exchange rate of ₦1,498/$). This amount surpasses aid received by major African economies such as South Africa and Egypt.
According to data from Statista, sourced from ForeignAssistance.gov, Nigeria is one of the largest beneficiaries of U.S. foreign assistance. The USAID program, established over 60 years ago, provides financial aid to countries to strengthen U.S. influence and counter similar foreign aid efforts by other global powers.
Top 10 USAID Aid Recipients in Africa (2023)
- Ethiopia – $1.676 billion
- Somalia – $1.046 billion
- Democratic Republic of Congo – $936 million
- Nigeria – $824 million
- South Sudan – $740 million
- Kenya – $680 million
- Uganda – $525 million
- Mozambique – $473 million
- Sudan – $464 million
- Tanzania – $455 million
Globally, Ukraine was the largest recipient of USAID funds in 2023, receiving $16.02 billion, largely due to the ongoing war with Russia. Other top beneficiaries included Ethiopia ($1.67 billion), Jordan ($1.19 billion), Afghanistan ($1.08 billion), and Somalia ($1.04 billion).
Impact of Potential USAID Funding Cuts on Nigeria
USAID plays a crucial role in funding key sectors in Nigeria, particularly healthcare, education, and humanitarian aid. However, concerns about potential budget cuts have raised fears of job losses and disruptions to essential services.
A senior official from a USAID partner organization warned that over 1,000 jobs could be lost if funding ceases, particularly in projects like the Global Health Supply Chain. Health workers, including those in Bayelsa State, are already experiencing work suspensions due to funding uncertainties.
Key Programs at Risk
- HIV/AIDS Program – USAID’s $140 million HIV/AIDS initiative for 2024 may be affected.
- Tuberculosis and Malaria Interventions – Critical medical programs could face disruptions.
- Maternal and Child Healthcare – Clinics are reporting low stock of essential drugs, potentially limiting access to care in rural areas.
Experts warn that if USAID support is withdrawn, Nigeria’s public health system could face severe challenges, affecting millions of citizens.
Nigeria’s Response to USAID Funding Uncertainty
To mitigate the impact of potential cuts, the Nigerian government has launched a multi-ministerial committee to develop a transition and sustainability plan for USAID-funded health programs. The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved $1 billion for healthcare reforms and allocated an additional $3.2 million to procure 150,000 HIV treatment packs over the next four months.
Authorities say the new funding will focus on primary healthcare improvements, maternal and child health services, and training of medical professionals. The committee, which includes officials from the finance, health, and environment ministries, aims to ensure that patients receiving treatment for HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria do not experience setbacks amid the uncertainty over U.S. foreign policy.
