U.S. President Donald Trump has escalated his warnings against Nigeria, declaring that Washington may resort to military intervention if violence against Christians continues.
In a strongly worded video message released Wednesday, Trump said he would not rule out air strikes or deploying U.S. troops on the ground to halt what he described as the “mass slaughter” of Christians by radical Islamist groups.
On October 31, Trump officially redesignated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” under U.S. law, citing severe violations of religious freedom. His latest remarks reinforced that designation, with the president insisting that the Nigerian government must act swiftly or face consequences.
Speaking from behind a lectern bearing the presidential seal, Trump outlined potential U.S. measures, including cutting aid to Nigeria and launching direct military operations. “If the Nigerian government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the USA will immediately stop all aid assistance to Nigeria,” he warned.
Trump instructed the Department of War to prepare for possible action, describing any strike as “vicious and sweet.” He urged Nigerian authorities to act before it was “too late.”
Framing the crisis as existential, Trump said: “Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. Thousands and thousands of Christians are being killed. Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter.” He called on Congress to investigate the situation immediately, specifically tasking Rep. Riley Moore and House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole to report back.
Beyond military threats, Trump emphasized that the U.S. stance is part of a broader global mission to defend Christian communities. “The United States cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening in Nigeria and numerous other countries. We stand ready, willing, and able to save our great Christian population around the world,” he declared.
Trump’s comments mark one of the most forceful U.S. warnings to Nigeria in recent years, signaling that Washington may take unprecedented steps if Abuja fails to address the violence.
