Tensions Rise Over Religious Violence in Nigeria
U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that American troops could be deployed to Nigeria amid escalating concerns over alleged persecution of Christians. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump said, “They’re killing Christians in very large numbers—we’re not going to allow that to happen.”
Trump Directs Pentagon to Prepare for Action
On Saturday, Trump instructed the Pentagon to prepare for potential military action in Nigeria, threatening to halt all aid if the Nigerian government “continues to allow the killing of Christians.” He posted that the U.S. might go into the country “guns-a-blazing” to eliminate “Islamic terrorists committing these horrible atrocities.”
Nigeria Designated as a Country of Concern
Trump also announced that Nigeria is being designated a “country of particular concern” by the U.S. State Department, citing “severe violations of religious freedom.” He requested reports from Rep. Riley Moore and Rep. Tom Cole regarding the violence.
Complex Ground Reality in Nigeria
While Nigeria’s population is nearly evenly divided between Christians and Muslims, violence has complex roots, involving religious, ethnic, and socioeconomic factors. Amnesty International earlier called the situation a “humanitarian crisis,” with rising attacks in northern Nigeria.
Nigeria Pushes Back on Trump’s Allegations
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu rejected Trump’s characterization, stating it does not reflect Nigeria’s “national reality.” He emphasized his administration’s commitment to religious freedom and cooperation with both Christian and Muslim leaders to address security challenges.
