Former United States President Donald Trump has reiterated that the United States could conduct additional military strikes in Nigeria if attacks on Christian communities continue, an announcement that underscores growing international scrutiny of Nigeria’s security situation.
In an interview published on January 9, 2026, Mr. Trump stated that while he hoped the U.S. military action in Nigeria would be a single occurrence, further operations are likely if violence against Christians does not abate. “I’d love to make it a one-time strike,” he said. “But if they continue to kill Christians, it will be a many-time strike.”
The remarks followed a U.S. military operation targeting Islamic State-linked militants in northwest Nigeria. The United States has marked an escalation of military engagement in the region, citing persistent attacks on civilians, including Christian communities, as justification. Nigerian authorities have consistently rejected claims that Christians are being deliberately targeted, emphasising that the country faces a complex security challenge with multiple communities affected by violence.
During the interview, Mr. Trump addressed comments from his own Africa adviser suggesting that Islamist militant groups such as Boko Haram and ISIS have inflicted casualties on both Muslim and Christian populations. Trump acknowledged broader casualties but maintained his focus on Christian victims. “I think that Muslims are being killed also in Nigeria,” he said. “But it’s mostly Christians.”
The United States and Nigeria have experienced periodic diplomatic tension over security cooperation and differing interpretations of religious persecution in the country. Mr. Trump’s comments reflect a more assertive posture toward Nigeria’s internal security dynamics. The Nigerian government has repeatedly stated its commitment to combating all forms of violent extremism without religious bias.
Analysts note that Nigeria’s longstanding security concerns, particularly in its northern regions, involve kidnappings, attacks by Islamist groups and bandits, and state capacity limitations. These challenges have continued despite sustained efforts by Nigerian security forces, raising questions about effective strategies for civilian protection.
The potential for expanded foreign military engagement adds a new dimension to the debate around security policy in Nigeria. Advocates for stronger protections argue that international pressure may heighten accountability, while critics caution that foreign military involvement could complicate Nigeria’s sovereignty and existing security collaborations.
Mr. Trump’s remarks have drawn varied reactions, with some international observers calling for reinforced humanitarian efforts and others urging diplomatic engagement that emphasises development and governance alongside security responses.
The situation remains fluid. Nigeria’s government has not issued a detailed response to this latest statement, but the issue is likely to influence ongoing discussions between Abuja and foreign partners on how best to address violent extremism and protect vulnerable communities.
