Tension is mounting across Nigeria following former US President Donald Trump’s threat of military action after designating Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged persecution of Christians. The warning has drawn sharp reactions from Nigerians, global leaders, and regional blocs calling for restraint and diplomacy.
Trump’s remarks, which included claims of “genocide against Christians” and an order for the US Defence Department to prepare for potential intervention, have been met with both outrage and cautious support. While some Nigerians welcome the statement as a wake-up call to the government, others have condemned it as a violation of national sovereignty.
President Bola Tinubu dismissed Trump’s classification of Nigeria as “religiously intolerant,” insisting it did not reflect the nation’s reality. He maintained that his administration has consistently worked to protect freedom of religion and promote peaceful coexistence among citizens.
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs echoed the president’s response, describing Trump’s position as “unhelpful,” while pledging to strengthen cooperation with international allies to combat violent extremism. Similarly, ECOWAS and the European Union denounced the US threat, warning that foreign military interference could destabilise the West African subregion.
China’s foreign ministry also voiced firm opposition to what it called “foreign meddling,” saying no country should use religion or human rights as a pretext for sanctions or force. “As Nigeria’s strategic partner, China opposes any attempt to threaten other nations under the guise of human rights,” spokesperson Mao Ning said.
At home, the controversy has deepened public debate. While human rights advocates urged the government to reform its counterterrorism strategy, some citizens voiced frustration, arguing that persistent insecurity, mass killings, and kidnappings had reached intolerable levels. Others viewed Trump’s warning as a “necessary shock” to push Nigerian leaders into action.
Analysts, including CLEEN Foundation’s Salaudeen Hashim, warned that the diplomatic standoff could strain Nigeria’s foreign relations unless addressed decisively. He called for stronger strategic communication, intelligence coordination, and the redefinition of Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities. “Every country has its national interest; it’s time Nigeria clearly defines and defends hers,” he said.
