Foreign aid bill pits Senate against NGOs

A bill aimed at requiring NGOs to disclose funds and humanitarian aid from foreign donors has sparked a divide between the Senate and civil society organizations. Proponents say it will enhance accountability and safeguard national security, while critics fear it could impede humanitarian work and restrict civil liberties. Titled “A Bill for an Act to Provide for the Regulation, Coordination, Transparency and Disclosure of Foreign Aid, Grants and Donations Received in the Federal Republic of Nigeria; to Ensure Accountability in the Utilization of Such Aid; and for Related Matters, 2026 (SB.

1034),” the legislation aims to monitor annual foreign funding entering Nigeria from governments, foundations, and private donors. Introduced on May 6, 2026, and passed in its second reading on July 22, 2026, the bill is currently under review by Senate committees before a public hearing. This is the fourth attempt by the National Assembly to introduce such legislation, following previous proposals in 2016, 2017, and 2019/2020 that were blocked by civil society groups who feared excessive regulatory control.

Key aspects of the bill include establishing a comprehensive framework for foreign aid regulation, ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of foreign donations, and preventing misuse or duplication of aid projects. The law applies to ministries, state and local governments, as well as NGOs, CSOs, and private entities receiving foreign aid.

It mandates the creation of the Foreign Aid Regulatory Commission (FARC), an independent body with the power to oversee and audit foreign aid, demand financial documents, conduct inspections, and impose penalties for non-compliance. Penalties for violation include fines and potential suspension or revocation of licenses. Lawmakers claim the bill is necessary to address shortcomings in Nigeria's current foreign aid management system, but the opposition fears it may hinder aid delivery and limit civil society space.