In a fiery campaign rally, on Saturday, former President Donald Trump threatened to halt all U.S. aid to Nigeria and warned of launching a “vicious military attack” against the country, citing what he described as “massive persecution of Christians.”
“We give Nigeria billions and billions of dollars,” Trump told supporters. “Not anymore. I would immediately stop all U.S. aid. And if they don’t stop killing Christians, we’ll take them out – a vicious military attack. We have to do it.”
The comments, made just days before the 2025 presidential election, have sparked international concern and prompted a rapid response from U.S. defense officials. The Pentagon confirmed late Saturday that it is “actively developing military options” targeting extremist groups within Nigeria, specifically naming Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
Defense Secretary Marco Papas said in a statement that the Department of Defense is preparing “a full range of options” for the President’s review, emphasizing that any action would be designed to “protect civilians and religious minorities.”
According to administration officials, Trump’s proposed policy actions include an immediate suspension of all U.S. financial assistance to Nigeria, followed by a potential military strike on “specific targets” linked to terrorist operations if the violence against Christians continues.
The remarks are likely to trigger a major diplomatic clash between Washington and Abuja. Nigeria remains one of the United States’ key partners in West Africa, cooperating closely on counterterrorism and regional stability.
Legal experts note that any U.S. military action would require a clear legal authority, which the Pentagon is reportedly reviewing.
International observers have expressed alarm at the rhetoric, warning that Trump’s threat could destabilize a fragile region and complicate ongoing peace efforts.
The controversy adds to an already volatile political climate just days ahead of the U.S. election, where foreign policy and religious freedom have become key campaign talking points.
