Trump Directs Defense Department to Prepare for Potential Intervention in Nigeria
WASHINGTON – Former President Donald Trump has instructed the Department of Defense to ”prepare for possible action” in nigeria, responding to ongoing violence targeting Christians in the country. The announcement, made via Trump’s social media platform, comes after he designated Nigeria a “country of particular concern” due to what he termed “notably severe violations of religious freedom.”
“The killing of innocent Christians in Nigeria – and anywhere - must end promptly,” Trump stated.
Pete Hegseth, a media personality, replied to Trump’s post with a simple ”Yes sir.” He then posted separately on X, stating, “The Department of War is preparing for action. Either the Nigerian Government protects Christians, or we will kill the Islamic Terrorists who are committing thes horrible atrocities.”
The move has prompted a response from the Nigerian government. Presidential spokesperson Daniel bwala indicated Sunday that Nigeria would welcome U.S. assistance in combating Islamist insurgents, “as long as it recognises our territorial integrity.” He told Reuters, “I am sure by the time these two leaders meet and sit, there would be better outcomes in our joint resolve to fight terrorism.”
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, however, disputed Trump’s characterization of the country, writing on X saturday that Nigeria’s “characterisation as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality.” He affirmed that “religious freedom and tolerance have been a core tenet of our collective identity.” Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs later issued a statement reiterating the country’s commitment to tackling “violent extremism” and emphasizing its respect for ”faith, tolerance, diversity and inclusion.”
Trump previously designated Nigeria a “country of particular concern” during his first term. That designation was reversed in 2021 by the Biden administration, with then-Secretary of State Antony Blinken determining the country “did not meet the criteria” for inclusion on the list.
Other countries currently designated as “countries of particular concern” by the U.S. government include China, Cuba, and North Korea. NBC News has reached out to the nigerian embassy for comment.
