By Kunbi Adesokan
Donald Trump’s return to the White House has sent shockwaves across the global aid community, raising urgent concerns about the United States’ foreign assistance to Africa. With his administration already pushing aggressive “America First” policies, African nations, like Nigeria, face an uncertain future. If history repeats itself, Trump’s renewed cuts on international funding could unravel decades of progress in healthcare, security, education and economic development.
US as Africa’s biggest aid partner
The US has long been Africa’s most significant development partner. In 2021 alone, US aid to the continent reached $8bn, supporting critical programmes through the United States Agency for International Development, the President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief, and the Millennium Challenge Corporation. These funds have strengthened healthcare systems, fuelled economic empowerment and provided relief during humanitarian crises.
Yet, Trump’s return could mean a drastic rollback of these commitments. His reinstatement of the controversial “Mexico City Policy” (Global Gag Rule) has already restricted funding for reproductive health programmes, directly impacting maternal and child healthcare across Africa. Moreover, potential cuts to disease control programmes threaten to reverse progress in the fight against malaria, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.
Nigeria on the brink of aid shortfall
Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, has relied on foreign aid to supplement critical sectors. In 2022, the country received nearly $800m in US assistance, with the bulk directed towards health, education and humanitarian relief. However, the World Bank estimates that Nigeria still requires $3tn in infrastructure investment over the next three decades to bridge its development gaps.
Nigeria after US aid slash – The consequences
Healthcare crisis: Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS response is heavily dependent on foreign funding. The Presidential Emergency Plan for Aids Relief alone has provided over $7bn since 2003, saving millions of lives. A reduction in aid could increase the mortality rate and overwhelm local health systems.
Rising security threats: The US has been a key partner in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts, particularly against Boko Haram. A cut in security aid could weaken Nigeria’s military response, exacerbating violence and displacements.
Economic fallout: With an unemployment rate of around 33 per cent, Nigeria cannot afford further economic disruptions. Aid-funded programmes have created jobs in healthcare, education and social services – sectors that could see massive layoffs if funding dries up.
Education setbacks: The US aid has provided scholarships, teacher training and emergency education for displaced populations. Without this support, access to quality education could decline, widening the poverty gap.
Can Nigeria bridge the gap?
Nigeria has implemented many home-grown social security programmes, but their scale remains limited. Initiatives like the National Social Investment Programme and the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme aim to reduce poverty and boost entrepreneurship. However, inconsistent funding and mismanagement hindered their full potential.
The private sector and philanthropists have supported development efforts, but their contributions remain fragmented. Unlike in countries where businesses play a strong role in national development, Nigerian corporate giving is largely unstructured, with Corporate Social Responsibility efforts lacking sustainability and scale.
Call to action: Strengthening local capacity
With foreign aid in jeopardy, Nigeria must act swiftly to create sustainable, homegrown solutions. This means:
Empowering local NGOs: Indigenous organisations with deep community ties must receive greater financial support to drive long-term impact.
Increasing private sector engagement: Nigerian businesses should scale up CSR initiatives to support healthcare, education and economic empowerment.
Building PPPs: Government and businesses must collaborate to fund large-scale development programmes.
Strengthening domestic fundraising: Establishing national endowment funds for health and education can create a financial buffer against international funding cuts.
One organisation leading the charge is Friends of the Environment. It has been at the forefront of clean energy advocacy, environmental sustainability and youth capacity building. Its initiatives, ranging from transitioning households to cleaner energy to planting over 1,500 trees in local communities, showcase how local organisations can drive meaningful change. With increased funding, FOTE and similar groups could help Nigeria chart a new course towards self-reliance.
The road ahead: Seizing the opportunity for independence
The potential withdrawal of US aid presents both a crisis and a clarion call. While it threatens progress in crucial sectors, it also offers Nigeria a chance to redefine its development strategy. By prioritising local funding mechanisms, fostering stronger partnerships and strengthening community-driven initiatives, Nigeria can reduce its dependence on foreign aid and build a more resilient future.
The time to act is now!
Adesokan is the Executive Director, Friends of the Environment
