Nigeria’s Senate is advancing legislation that could expand government oversight of organizations receiving foreign funding, raising concerns about its impact on independent documentation of persecution and human rights work.
The Foreign Aid (Regulation, Transparency and Disclosure) Bill, 2026 (SB.1034), passed its second reading in July and faces further scrutiny. The proposed law would establish a Foreign Aid Regulatory Commission to monitor foreign assistance, imposing stricter registration, disclosure, and compliance requirements on NGOs, churches, and humanitarian groups. While the government claims the measure aims to improve transparency and align foreign aid with national priorities, critics argue it risks undermining independent documentation of religious persecution and human rights abuses.
Legislative Provisions and Concerns
Human Rights Watch echoed these concerns, noting that the bill’s vague definition of national development plans
could lead to uncertainty for groups engaged in accountability work. The organization highlighted potential penalties, including financial sanctions, loss of operating licenses, and imprisonment, for non-compliance.
Opposition from Religious and Human Rights Groups
Religious leaders and human rights advocates warn the bill threatens the independence of groups documenting persecution. The CBCN emphasized that churches and humanitarian organizations play a critical role in reporting attacks against religious communities, particularly in regions affected by Islamist extremist groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP.
Critics also raised alarms about the bill’s broader implications for civil society.
Broader Implications for Nigeria’s Civil Society
The bill has drawn condemnation from international watchdogs.
As the bill progresses, the debate over its implications for religious freedom and human rights documentation remains unresolved. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference has called on the National Assembly to halt the legislation, arguing that organizations receiving foreign assistance already face existing regulatory requirements.