Earlier this afternoon, the 25th Navajo Nation Council issued a press release stating that “President Nygren defunds missing persons services to fund travel and operations for OPVP.” This statement is false and includes misinformation on this serious matter.
The Nygren Administration has delivered $4.7 million for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) for this fiscal year 2026, which is more than any administration in Navajo Nation history. This initiative falls under one of President Nygren’s health and social priorities that addresses MMIR by prioritizing advocacy, support and funding.
Some of these actions included executive orders and proclamations. Earlier this year, President Nygren signed Executive Order 02-2025 that coordinates a plan within the executive branch to address missing persons cases.
“Numbers don’t lie, and neither do the results. My commitment and follow-through speak for themselves,” President Nygren said.
One of the most recent initiatives is the 4 Corners K-9 Search and Rescue (4CK9SAR), which is moving forward. The Nygren Administration is providing $20,000 out of the $250,000 for the first tranche of funding. This is to accountability and measurable goals.
Once Council approves Legislation 0224-25 or Legislation 0225-25, the next tranches of funding will be provided.
In the meantime, funds need to be redirected to keep the highest executive office of the Navajo Nation functioning — that includes basic operations like vehicles, fuel, and administrative functions. This isn’t about President’ Nygren’s travel. The travel funding is largely for expenses for fleet vehicles that OPVP’s Community Representatives and other Executive Staff use to visit Chapters across the Navajo Nation for community meetings and events, food distribution, to assist with emergency response, and to address needs across the Navajo Nation.
Additionally, President Nygren gave Council over $500,000 for their own operations. He could have fully cut Council’s budget, as he has line-item veto authority. But in the spirit of cooperation and moving the Navajo Nation forward, President Nygren chose to lead by example. At any time, Council could fully fund the Executive and Legislative Branch programs and offices that still need funding to operate and serve the Navajo people.
“It’s time to stop playing games, stop spreading lies, and stop trying to create division. Our people deserve better than political theater,” President Nygren said. “I’m focused on delivering real solutions. Council just needs to pass Legislation 0225-25.”