Trump Warns of Possible New U.S. Strikes in Nigeria Over Attacks on Christians

U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that the United States could carry out further military operations in Nigeria if attacks on Christian communities persist. His comments come after a U.S.-assisted strike in northwest Nigeria over the Christmas period targeting militants affiliated with extremist groups.

In a recent interview, Trump stressed that while the initial military action was intended as a one-time measure, continued violence against Christians could prompt repeated interventions. “I’d like to see it as a single strike, but if the killing of Christians continues, we may have to act multiple times,” he said.

Trump acknowledged that Muslims have also been victims of the violence but maintained that Christians have been disproportionately affected. This assertion follows his ongoing statements that Christianity faces an existential threat in parts of Nigeria.

The Nigerian government has repeatedly stated that there is no systematic persecution of Christians, emphasizing that violence in the country is driven by terrorism and criminal activity, affecting both Muslims and Christians alike. Officials have expressed willingness to collaborate with the United States in counterterrorism efforts but have rejected framing the issue as a religious conflict.

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country with over 230 million residents, has a nearly equal Christian-Muslim population. Security challenges, particularly in the northern regions, include insurgency, banditry, and kidnappings. Government authorities maintain that extremist groups target individuals indiscriminately, based on opportunity rather than religion.

Analysts say Trump’s statements could heighten diplomatic tensions between Washington and Abuja, particularly given the sensitive balance of religious communities in Nigeria. U.S. intervention, even under the guise of counterterrorism, risks being perceived as favoritism toward a specific religious group.

Observers also note that the evolving security situation in Nigeria requires nuanced engagement, with international partners focusing on both humanitarian support and long-term counterterrorism strategies. Military strikes, while tactical, are unlikely to resolve the underlying socio-economic and political conditions that fuel violence.

As the situation develops, both U.S. and Nigerian authorities are expected to maintain communication to coordinate efforts against militant groups, while addressing concerns from communities affected by the ongoing insecurity.