Gen. Ariyibi claims that both Boko Haram and ISWAP are receiving foreign funding, pointing to clear evidence of external support. He highlights the ongoing threat posed by these groups in the region.
Major General Adekunle Ariyibi, the Chief of Defence Standards and Evaluations at Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters (DHQ), has confirmed that Boko Haram and other terrorist groups receive foreign funding.
Ariyibi made the statement during an appearance on The Morning Brief on Channels Television, noting that foreign support for Boko Haram and ISWAP is one of the key reasons the fight against terrorism in Nigeria has dragged on for so long. He emphasized that such operations would not have endured for 15 years without external assistance.
“It’s clear that the operations of Boko Haram and ISWAP have evolved since they allied with ISIS, and they have gained access to international funding, which is evident in the advanced weapons they display,” Ariyibi explained. He also pointed out that these groups are now using drones, not only for surveillance but also to deliver weaponry, showcasing their growing capabilities.
In light of this, U.S. Congressman Scott Perry recently stated that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) had inadvertently funded terrorist organizations like Boko Haram. This claim has sparked ongoing debates both in Nigeria and abroad. Ariyibi agreed with the assertion, emphasizing that such foreign funding is crucial for sustaining the terrorist operations, beyond local revenue like taxes.
Following Perry’s comments, Senator Ali Ndume has called for a full investigation by the Nigerian government into the matter. “This is more than just an allegation. It is critical for the Nigerian government and National Assembly to investigate and verify the truth behind this serious claim,” Ndume said.
In 2024, the Nigerian government identified individuals and Bureau de Change (BDCs) as key players in terrorism financing, while authorities in both the U.S. and the UAE have imposed sanctions and frozen assets of individuals linked to these activities.
