US President Donald Trump announces the cancelation of Canada trade. Image credit: AP Photo/Manuel Ceneta.
(The Post News) – President Donald Trump has ordered the U.S. military to prepare for potential action against Islamist militants in Nigeria, citing concerns over religious persecution and the Nigerian government’s alleged failure to protect Christian communities.
In a statement delivered on 1 November 2025, Trump said he had ordered the Pentagon to “prepare for possible action” in Nigeria, warning that the United States could cut off all aid and intervene militarily if the Nigerian government continues to “allow the killing of Christians.”
His remarks have sparked international concern and raised questions about the future of U.S.-Nigeria relations.
US Military Action
Trump did not specify which incidents he was referencing, though allegations of a genocide targeting Christians in Nigeria have been gaining traction recently within certain conservative circles in the United States.
“If the Nigerian Government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the U.S.A. will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria,” Trump said.
“We may very well go into that now disgraced country, guns-a-blazing, to completely wipe out the Islamic terrorists who are committing these atrocities”.
According to the BBC, there is no verified evidence of systematic targeting of Christians alone.
Nigeria’s long-standing conflict with Islamist groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) has affected both Muslim and Christian communities.
Nigeria Rejects Claims
Reports from Nigeria have described the government’s reaction as surprised by the tone of Trump’s statement, with sources in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressing concern over the diplomatic fallout.
Nigeria is a key strategic partner in West Africa, and any U.S. military intervention would require careful coordination with local forces and regional allies.
He acknowledged the country’s ongoing security challenges but dismissed the idea that Christians are being singled out. “There is no Christian genocide in Nigeria,” he stated firmly.
Ebienfa emphasised that the violence affects various groups, not just Christians.
“We’ve consistently clarified that while killings have occurred, they are not exclusive to Christians—Muslims and traditional worshippers have also been victims. Christians do not make up the majority of those affected,” he explained.
Human rights organisations have urged restraint.
“Military intervention should be a last resort,” said a spokesperson for Amnesty International. “Nigeria’s security challenges are complex and deeply rooted. What’s needed is sustained international cooperation—not unilateral threats.”
DW said that the U.S. Department of Defense has not confirmed any active deployment plans but acknowledged that contingency strategies are under review.
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