Nigeria has expressed willingness to accept American counterterrorism assistance while firmly defending its religious tolerance record, following President Donald Trump’s threat of military intervention in the West African nation.
The Nigerian presidency stated it welcomes US support in combating Islamist insurgents, provided the country’s sovereignty remains respected. This response follows Trump’s Saturday declaration on Truth Social, where he instructed the Defense Department to prepare for potential military action against Nigeria.
Presidential Response
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu rejected characterizations of Nigeria as religiously intolerant, emphasizing his government’s constitutional commitment to protecting citizens of all faiths. The Foreign Ministry reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to fighting violent extremism while maintaining its alliance with Washington.
Trump halted all US aid to Africa’s most populous nation, demanding immediate action against groups targeting Christians. He warned of swift military intervention if Nigeria fails to address the situation, though he provided no specific evidence supporting his claims.
Complex Security Landscape
Nigeria faces genuine security challenges, particularly from Boko Haram insurgents who have killed tens of thousands over fifteen years in the northeast. However, human rights organizations note that Muslims constitute the majority of Boko Haram’s victims.
The nation of 200 ethnic groups practicing Christianity, Islam, and traditional religions has historically maintained peaceful coexistence, though violence occasionally erupts along ethnic and resource competition lines.
Policy Implications
Trump’s redesignation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” for religious freedom—reversing President Biden’s 2021 removal—enables various policy responses including potential sanctions. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed Trump’s stance, declaring the Defense Department ready for action.
Congressional Republicans have supported increased funding for international religious freedom programs targeting extremist-affected Nigerian communities, though specific implementation details remain unclear.
