Trump orders army to prepare for operation in Nigeria

(MENAFN) US President Donald Trump has directed the military to ready operations in Nigeria targeting Islamist militant groups, accusing the government of failing to safeguard Christians. He did not specify particular incidents, though claims of a genocide against Nigeria’s Christians have circulated in some right-wing US circles. Observers monitoring violence note that there is no evidence Christians are being killed at higher rates than Muslims in a nation evenly divided between the two faiths.

An advisor to Nigeria’s president stated that any action against jihadist groups should be coordinated with local authorities. Daniel Bwala emphasized that Nigeria welcomes support in confronting insurgents while maintaining its sovereignty. He added that jihadists target people of all faiths or none, rather than focusing on a specific religion. President Bola Tinubu reiterated that religious tolerance exists in the country and that insecurity affects citizens “across faiths and regions.”

Trump posted on social media on Saturday: “possible action.” He warned that the military could enter Nigeria “guns-a-blazing” unless the government intervened and threatened to cut all aid to what he called “the now disgraced country.” He also stated: “If we attack, it will be fast, vicious, and sweet, just like the terrorist thugs attack our CHERISHED Christians!”

Responding, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said: “Yes sir. The Department of War is preparing for action. Either the Nigerian Government protects Christians, or we will kill the Islamic Terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities.”

Trump’s comments have caused concern in Nigeria, with social media users urging the government to address Islamist threats proactively to prevent foreign military intervention.

Bwala, a Christian pastor, noted that Trump has a “unique way of communicating” and that his words should not be taken literally. “We know the heart and intent of Trump is to help us fight insecurity,” he said, expressing hope for a meeting between Trump and Tinubu.

Earlier, Trump labeled Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” due to what he described as an “existential threat” to Christians, claiming “thousands” had been killed without providing evidence. This designation allows for US sanctions against nations “engaged in severe violations of religious freedom.” Tinubu responded by affirming his administration’s commitment to safeguarding communities of all faiths: “The characterisation of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality.”

Jihadist organizations such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province have caused widespread violence in northeastern Nigeria for over a decade, killing thousands, mostly Muslims, according to reports. Central Nigeria also experiences clashes between primarily Muslim herders and mostly Christian farmers over land and water, resulting in deadly cycles of retaliation. Human rights groups note that both sides have committed atrocities, with no clear evidence of Christians being disproportionately targeted.

Trump, who often highlights his efforts to avoid war during his presidency, has increasingly faced domestic pressure from conservative voices emphasizing the situation in Nigeria.

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