The European Union has dismissed reports suggesting it has slashed its humanitarian assistance to Nigeria, particularly regarding food and nutrition aid. This response comes after Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, claimed in a July 25 statement that the EU and other donors had significantly reduced their support during a critical period of rising malnutrition.
In a press release issued on Monday by the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, the Union described the allegations as inaccurate and without evidence. It clarified that funding from the EU Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Office (ECHO) for the first half of 2025 matched that of the same period in 2024. The EU also noted that additional funding increases, known as “top-ups,” were already being planned, as done in previous years.
The EU emphasized that nutrition, health, and food emergency responses continue to be major priorities for its humanitarian interventions in Nigeria. It further acknowledged that MSF has since updated its original statement, removing the EU from the list of donors allegedly involved in cutting aid.
“The EU Delegation takes note of the revised version of the press release published today by MSF, which eliminates the mention of the European Union,” the statement read.
While praising MSF’s efforts in Nigeria, some of which are supported by EU funds, the Union urged for accuracy in public communication, especially in contexts involving millions of vulnerable people.
The EU also echoed its ambassador’s earlier call, made during a joint press conference with Nigeria’s Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and other partners on July 22, encouraging greater local and international collaboration to support affected communities.
Reaffirming its stance, the EU Delegation concluded by stating it is upholding all financial commitments and maintaining its support to Nigeria under their ongoing partnership.
