The United States Department of War is preparing for potential military action in Nigeria, following President Donald Trump’s directive in response to escalating violence against Christian communities in the West African nation. The announcement was made by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who confirmed that operational planning is underway to address what the administration has described as “anti-Christian atrocities.”
In a statement posted on social media, Secretary Hegseth declared, “The killing of innocent Christians in Nigeria and anywhere must end immediately. The Department of War is preparing for action. Either the Nigerian Government protects Christians, or we will kill the Islamic terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities.”
President Trump echoed this sentiment in a Truth Social post, warning that the U.S. would halt all aid to Nigeria and may deploy forces “guns-a-blazing” unless the Nigerian government acts swiftly to stop the violence. “If we attack, it will be fast, vicious, and sweet, just like the terrorist thugs attack our cherished Christians,” Trump wrote.
The announcement has sparked international concern, with diplomatic observers urging restraint and dialogue. Nigerian officials have yet to issue a formal response, though sources within the Presidency have indicated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is seeking to engage with U.S. leadership to clarify Nigeria’s position and reaffirm its commitment to religious freedom and counterterrorism.
The U.S. War Department’s preparations reportedly include intelligence coordination, strategic assessments, and potential deployment scenarios aimed at neutralizing extremist threats in northern and central Nigeria. While no timeline has been disclosed, officials have emphasized that any action would be swift and targeted.
Human rights organizations have expressed mixed reactions, with some welcoming the U.S. stance against religious violence, while others caution against foreign military intervention that could further destabilize the region.