WASHINGTON — US President Donald Trump has warned of possible military action against Nigeria, accusing its government of allowing the “killing of Christians,” and announced that all US aid and assistance to the country would be suspended.
In a post on Truth Social on Saturday, Trump said he had instructed the Defence Department to prepare for potential operations, warning that any action would be “fast, vicious, and sweet.” He alleged that “Islamic terrorists” were behind the violence, though he provided no evidence to support the claims.
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The Nigerian government and the White House have yet to respond to Trump’s remarks, which came a day after his administration reinstated Nigeria on the “Countries of Particular Concern” list for alleged religious freedom violations. Other nations on the list include China, Russia, North Korea, and Pakistan.
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu rejected the allegations, saying the country’s constitution guarantees freedom of religion for all citizens. The Foreign Ministry echoed this, stressing Nigeria’s commitment to fighting violent extremism and promoting unity among its diverse population.
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Trump’s statement marks a renewed focus on Nigeria, which he had previously listed as a country of concern during his first term in office before the designation was later removed by President Joe Biden in 2021.