Trump Orders Military Preparedness Against Islamist Militants in Nigeria

Mon Nov 03 2025 12:20:43 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

US President Donald Trump has called for military action in Nigeria to combat Islamist militant groups, citing concerns over the protection of Christians. The situation raises significant diplomatic and security implications for both Nigeria and the United States.

President Donald Trump has instructed the US military to prepare for potential action against Islamist militant groups in Nigeria, claiming the government has failed to adequately protect Christians. However, claims of genocide are disputed by monitoring groups which indicate that attacks are not specifically targeting Christians over Muslims, as violence affects both communities. The Nigerian government welcomed US assistance, emphasizing its sovereignty while denying the characterization of Nigeria as religiously intolerant.

US President Donald Trump has ordered the military to prepare for action in Nigeria to tackle Islamist militant groups, accusing the government of failing to protect Christians.

Trump did not specify which killings he was referencing, but claims of genocide against Nigeria's Christians have recently been circulating in some right-wing circles in the US.

Monitoring groups have found no evidence suggesting Christians are being targeted more than Muslims, who comprise roughly half of Nigeria's population.

A senior advisor to Nigeria's president stated that military action against jihadist groups should be a collaborative effort.

Daniel Bwala noted that while Nigeria welcomes US assistance, it remains a sovereign nation. He highlighted that the insurgents do not discriminate based on religion in their attacks.

Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu maintains that there is religious tolerance within the country, emphasizing that security challenges affect individuals across various faiths.

In a recent social media post, Trump instructed the US Department of War to prepare for possible action, warning that military intervention could be swift and severe unless the Nigerian government took action.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth responded affirmatively to Trump's post, indicating that preparations are underway to confront the terrorist groups responsible for atrocities.

Trump's warnings have raised alarm in Nigeria, with many citizens urging their government to intensify efforts against the militants to prevent a foreign military presence.

Bwala acknowledged Trump’s intent to assist in combating insecurity, while expressing hope for a meeting between Trump and Tinubu to discuss the situation.

Additionally, Trump classified Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern regarding religious freedom violations, suggesting potential sanctions. Tinubu's government aims to work closely with the US to ensure the protection of communities regardless of their faith.

The persistent violence in Nigeria stems from groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP, which have attacked various populations, predominantly affecting Muslims according to various analysts.

While Trump's threats signify increasing scrutiny on Nigeria's handling of security, the ultimate impact of his statements on diplomatic relations remains to be seen.