EFCC, FBI move to probe alleged diversion, mismanagement of USAID funds

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have strengthened their collaboration in investigating allegations of financial irregularities related to USAID-funded programs, particularly those associated with HIV and tuberculosis interventions. This came following a courtesy visit by Macus Maccain, Assistant Law Enforcement Attaché, FBI, to the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the EFCC on September 10, 2026.

The visit aimed to enhance intelligence sharing and operational synergy in probing the alleged diversion and mismanagement of funds provided under USAID-supported programs, especially after their shutdown in 2025.

Maccain highlighted the shutdown of USAID programs as a catalyst for concerns over the management of remaining funds, with some organizations suspected of mismanagement or diversion. Jeremy Kennon, Special Agent, Office of Inspector General, Department of State, emphasized the long-standing agreement between the U.S. and Nigerian governments to combat HIV and tuberculosis, noting financial irregularities in Kano State and other states.

The FBI expressed interest in maintaining a long-term working relationship with the EFCC, including reciprocal information sharing. Kaltungo, the EFCC's Acting Zonal Director, pledged to investigate allegations of diversion or mismanagement of USAID funds across Nigeria, tracing funds to their beneficiaries to establish how they were spent and whether any were mismanaged or diverted.