Former US President Donald Trump has directed the American military to prepare for potential action in Nigeria, citing concerns over Islamist militant violence and accusing the Nigerian government of failing to protect its Christian population.
In a social media post on Saturday, Trump said he had instructed the US Department of War to make preparations for “possible action,” warning that he might send troops “guns-a-blazing” unless Nigeria acted decisively against militant groups. He also claimed that all US aid to Nigeria could be cut if the situation did not improve.
“If we attack, it will be fast, vicious, and sweet — just like the terrorist thugs attack our cherished Christians,” Trump wrote, adding that the US “will not stand by” if the killings continue.
His statement comes amid growing debate within right-wing circles in the United States over alleged targeted violence against Christians in Nigeria — claims that have not been substantiated by independent monitoring organizations.
Human rights groups and conflict researchers note that both Christians and Muslims have been victims of violence in Nigeria’s long-running insurgency, particularly in the country’s northeast and central regions. The conflict, driven by groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), has caused tens of thousands of deaths and displaced millions since 2009.
An adviser to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, Daniel Bwala, responded to Trump’s comments in an interview with the BBC, saying Nigeria “would welcome US support” in the fight against jihadist groups, but emphasized that the nation remains a sovereign state.
“The jihadists are not targeting any specific religion — they have killed people from all faiths and none,” Bwala said. “We know President Trump’s intent is to help us fight insecurity, but Nigeria is handling its challenges through lawful means.”
President Tinubu has consistently denied any suggestion of religious persecution, asserting that security threats affect Nigerians across all regions and faiths. He recently reaffirmed his government’s commitment to restoring peace and strengthening interfaith tolerance.
Meanwhile, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth appeared to endorse Trump’s post, stating online that “the Department of War is preparing for action” and that Washington expects the Nigerian government to “protect Christians” or face direct intervention.
Trump’s comments have triggered concern within Nigeria, where many citizens expressed alarm on social media over the potential for foreign military involvement. Others urged the Nigerian government to intensify its efforts against extremist groups to prevent any escalation in international tensions.
As of now, no official military orders have been issued by the US, and the Nigerian government has not reported any formal communication from Washington regarding Trump’s statements.