U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Nigeria over what he describes as the government’s failure to curb the killing of Christians by Islamist militants.
In a statement posted on Truth Social over the weekend of November 1st and 2nd, 2025, President Trump threatened possible military action in Nigeria, saying any strike would be, quote, “fast, vicious and sweet, just like the terrorist thugs attack our cherished Christians.”
He directed the U.S. Department of Defense to prepare for potential rapid intervention if Nigeria does not act decisively. The U.S. leader also threatened to cut all aid to Nigeria, accusing its government of allowing what he called “religious genocide” against Christians.
President Trump’s comments followed the introduction of a resolution in the United States House of Representatives. The resolution, backed by Riley M. Moore, Representative for West Virginia, condemns the persecution of Christians in Nigeria and expresses readiness to support President Trump in taking decisive action.
The resolution notes that Nigeria has recorded the highest levels of violence against Christians since Boko Haram’s insurgency began in 2009. It cites the activities of Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province, and Fulani militants—accused of systematic attacks, church burnings, kidnappings, and sexual violence that have displaced millions.
It describes Nigeria as the deadliest place in the world to be a Christian, with about seven thousand Christians killed this year alone, and nearly one hundred thousand since 2009.
In reaction, the Nigerian government has rejected any threat of foreign military intervention. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stated that Nigeria will not surrender its sovereignty to any external power, insisting that the country’s security challenges are being tackled head-on.
In an address to the nation, President Tinubu reaffirmed his government’s determination to conquer terrorism and banditry, describing national security as, quote, “non-negotiable.”
He stated, “Yes, we face challenges of terrorism and criminality, but Nigeria will defeat these threats. We are one united family, and I have given fresh marching orders to our security forces to deal decisively with every criminal element.”
The President emphasized that Nigeria’s war against insecurity will continue with both military action and community-based efforts, while ensuring that citizens of all faiths are protected. He added that Nigeria welcomes international partnership, but only on terms that respect the country’s sovereignty.
Legal experts and international observers have warned that any U.S. military action without United Nations authorization would breach international law and Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
President Tinubu reiterated that his administration remains focused on building a safer, more united, and peaceful Nigeria.
