Why it matters:
Trump’s statement marks a rare and direct U.S. threat toward Africa’s most populous nation, escalating tensions amid Nigeria’s vocal criticism of Israel’s war in Gaza and its calls for Palestinian statehood.
The big picture:
Nigeria continues to grapple with widespread violence from Boko Haram militants, armed bandits, and criminal groups. These attacks have targeted citizens across religious and ethnic lines, undercutting foreign claims of a “Christian genocide.”
What he's saying:
Nigerian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa told Iran Press that Nigeria “acknowledges the crisis” of internal violence but rejected any suggestion of religious persecution or justification for foreign intervention.
“The government is against all killings, regardless of religion or ethnicity,” Ebienfa said. “President Tinubu has already taken action by changing the military service chiefs. External interference would undermine our sovereignty.”
Ebienfa also dismissed the U.S. designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern,” calling it unfounded.
“There is religious tolerance and freedom of worship in Nigeria,” he said. “It’s wrong to say there is a genocide against Christians.”
Key points:
- Trump’s warning: The U.S. president said he had ordered the Pentagon to plan possible military actions if Nigeria “continues to allow the killing of Christians.”
- Nigeria’s stance: Officials say the allegations stem from Abuja’s opposition to Israel’s Gaza offensive and support for Palestine.
- Foreign involvement: Ebienfa confirmed “verified reports” that some foreign powers supply weapons and training to terrorist groups in Nigeria, though he declined to name the countries.
- Sovereignty emphasized: The spokesperson said Nigeria believes in “strategic autonomy” and reminded Washington that “the U.S. also benefits from its relationship with Nigeria.”
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