Tensions flared on Saturday after former U.S. President Donald Trump said he had ordered the Pentagon to prepare plans for possible military intervention in Nigeria, accusing the nation of failing to protect Christians from targeted attacks.
In a post on social media, Trump warned that Washington could suspend aid to Nigeria and “go in guns-a-blazing” if the government “continues to allow the killing of Christians.”
“I have instructed the Department of War to prepare for possible action,” Trump wrote. “Any strike will be fast, vicious, and sweet.”
The remarks came just a day after Trump declared Nigeria a ‘Country of Particular Concern’, citing alleged persecution of Christians, a move that immediately drew sharp criticism from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerian officials.Responding in a statement on social media, Tinubu dismissed Trump’s allegations as unfounded and inconsistent with Nigeria’s reality, insisting that religious tolerance and freedom are at the heart of the nation’s identity.
“The characterisation of Nigeria as a religiously intolerant country does not reflect our national reality,” Tinubu said. “Religious freedom and tolerance have been a core tenet of our collective identity and shall always remain so. The government does not encourage persecution of any kind.
”Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also rejected Trump’s claim, calling it misleading and divisive. Spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa said Nigeria remains committed to protecting all citizens, regardless of their faith.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria will continue to defend all citizens, irrespective of race, creed, or religion,” Ebienfa said. “Like America, Nigeria has no option but to celebrate the diversity that is our greatest strength.
“Nigeria was first labeled a “Country of Particular Concern” by the U.S. in 2020, a designation lifted in 2023 to improve diplomatic relations.
Trump’s latest remarks have, however, rekindled debate in both Washington and Abuja over how best to address Nigeria’s human rights record without inflaming religious or geopolitical tensions.
