SERAP, Editors Threaten Court Action Over Foreign Aid Regulation Bill

SERAP and the Nigerian Guild of Editors have asked the National Assembly to withdraw the Foreign Aids (Regulation, Transparency and Disclosure) Bill, 2026. They argue that the proposed law could undermine civic space, press freedom and democratic participation. The bill would create a Foreign Aid Regulatory Commission to register and monitor organisations receiving foreign assistance. It would require disclosures, audits and compliance with government-defined development priorities. Violators could face fines of at least ₦20 million, licence suspension or revocation, and possible criminal penalties. SERAP and the editors’ body say existing agencies already regulate registration, taxation, financial reporting and anti-money-laundering compliance. They warn that the proposed framework could expose NGOs, media organisations, religious bodies, universities and humanitarian groups to excessive government control. The groups say they may challenge the bill in court if it becomes law, describing it as inconsistent with constitutional protections for freedom of expression and association.

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