SERAP, NGE OPPOSE FOREIGN AID BILL, DEMAND WITHDRAWAL

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project and the Nigerian Guild of Editors have criticised a proposed bill seeking to regulate foreign aid and development assistance in Nigeria, calling for its immediate withdrawal.

The groups expressed concern that the proposed legislation could create unnecessary restrictions around the activities of organisations receiving foreign assistance for development and humanitarian programmes.

SERAP and the NGE argued that foreign aid has continued to support important areas such as healthcare, education, poverty reduction, humanitarian assistance and other development initiatives across the country.

They warned that excessive government control over foreign-funded organisations could affect the ability of civil society groups and other development partners to operate effectively.

The organisations also raised concerns about the potential implications of the bill for freedom of expression, civic participation and the work of independent organisations.

They urged lawmakers to reconsider the proposed legislation and engage relevant stakeholders before taking further steps.

SERAP and the NGE maintained that accountability and transparency in the use of foreign assistance are important but should not be achieved through measures that unnecessarily restrict legitimate humanitarian and development activities.

The groups called on the National Assembly to withdraw the bill and focus instead on strengthening existing mechanisms for monitoring foreign assistance while protecting the independence of civil society and media organisations.

They said any legislation in this area should promote transparency without undermining fundamental rights or development efforts.