U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered the American military to prepare for possible action in Nigeria, accusing the government of failing to protect Christians from Islamist militants.
Trump made the statement on Saturday, claiming that “Christian genocide” was underway in Nigeria and warning that he could send troops “guns blazing” unless President Bola Tinubu’s government intervenes.
“If we attack, it will be fast, vicious, and sweet, just like the terrorist thugs attack our cherished Christians,” Trump wrote on his social media platform.
He said all U.S. aid to what he called “the now disgraced country” would be cut, adding that the Department of War was “preparing for action.”
Nigeria Responds to Trump’s Warning
An adviser to President Tinubu, Daniel Bwala, told the BBC that while Nigeria welcomed U.S. support in fighting extremists, the country remains “sovereign.” He added that jihadists have killed people of “all faiths or none,” rejecting claims that Christians were being targeted disproportionately.
Tinubu dismissed Trump’s remarks, saying, “The characterization of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality.”
Background: Ongoing Islamist Insurgency
Nigeria has battled jihadist groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) for over a decade. The insurgency has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions, mostly in the country’s northeast.
Analysts say most victims have been Muslims, while in central Nigeria, deadly farmer-herder clashes have claimed thousands of lives on both sides.
Trump’s statement has triggered alarm across Nigeria, with many urging the government to strengthen its security response and prevent foreign military involvement.
