Hussaini Kafi in Kano
The Nigerian government has suspended the International NGO Safety Organisation (INSO), a major humanitarian support agency operating in the country since 2016. The suspension is reportedly linked to allegations of suspicious activities, with growing fears among civil society groups that the government may be planning a wider crackdown on aid organisations.
Although specific details remain unclear, some observers believe the government could use a developing allegation involving a supposed USAID-Boko Haram link as a basis to intensify restrictions on humanitarian operations.
DW Africa reports that the INSO, which has played a vital role in supporting the safety and coordination of NGOs in volatile regions, particularly in the insurgency-affected North-East, has expressed readiness for dialogue with Nigerian authorities.
However, the shutdown has sparked concern across the humanitarian sector, especially as millions of vulnerable Nigerians depend on continued aid access.
The development comes amid rising tensions between the state and international NGOs, with aid groups increasingly accused of operating beyond their mandates or being involved in opaque activities.
Observers warn that if the suspension of INSO marks the beginning of a broader campaign against aid organizations, it could have devastating consequences for humanitarian access in hard-to-reach areas.
A similar wave of suspicion emerged in 2019 when several international NGOs were briefly suspended over alleged ties to insurgent groups. Though those bans were later lifted, they left a chilling effect on humanitarian engagement in the region.
Now, with INSO under suspension, aid workers fear history may be repeating itself.
