November 2, 2025
By Anamati Inyang- Uyo, Nigeria
In what appears to be a major diplomatic jolt, former United States President Donald Trump has announced that he has ordered the Pentagon to “prepare for possible action in Nigeria” over what he describes as ongoing attacks against Christians in the country.
Trump made the statement on his Truth Social page, warning that the United States government would “immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria” if Abuja fails to act swiftly to curb what he called “mass slaughter of Christians.”
“We may very well go into that now disgraced country, guns a blazing, to completely wipe out the Islamic terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities,” Trump wrote.
His comment, which has since stirred mixed reactions across diplomatic circles, also came with a directive to the United States Department of Defense to prepare for “fast and vicious” action.
Nigerian Government Reacts
Officials of the Nigerian government have dismissed Trump’s claim, insisting that his remarks do not reflect the true security situation in the country.
According to the Presidency, violence in Nigeria is not a religious war but a mix of terrorism, banditry, and communal conflicts affecting both Christians and Muslims.
Government spokespersons described Trump’s statement as “unfortunate and misleading”, stressing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is committed to protecting all citizens and restoring peace nationwide.
Background of the Issue
While Trump claims Christians are being targeted, local and international reports indicate that most victims of insecurity, including those of Boko Haram and bandit attacks, are Muslims living in the northern part of the country.
Experts also note that Nigeria’s security crisis is fueled by a combination of terrorism, herder farmer clashes, poverty, and political grievances, not strictly religious persecution.
Global Reactions and Implications
Trump’s statement has drawn widespread attention among international observers who fear that such rhetoric could strain diplomatic relations between Washington and Abuja.
United States Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reportedly echoed the former president’s comments online, suggesting that some level of planning or review might already be underway within the Pentagon.
Diplomatic analysts, however, warn that any unilateral military action could destabilize the region further, urging both nations to prioritize intelligence sharing and multilateral engagement instead.
In Summary
Trump’s threat, while dramatic, is not backed by any official United States policy statement as of now. The Nigerian government continues to maintain that it is working to end all forms of violence, irrespective of religion or tribe.
RISMADAR Voice will continue to monitor reactions from the Nigerian Foreign Affairs Ministry, the United States Embassy in Abuja, and ECOWAS leadership as the story develops.
