DOJO – The United States is sharpening its response to ongoing attacks against Christians in Nigeria, days after President Donald Trump openly criticized Nigerian authorities for “doing nothing” to curb the violence. Information originally reported by Fox News.
Trump Pressures Nigeria Over Deadly Attacks
President Trump said he is “really angry” about the continued killings, describing the crisis as a disgrace and signalling that U.S. support could be at risk if Nigeria fails to act. His warnings follow a string of brutal incidents in Christian communities across northern and central Nigeria.
Washington Pushes High-Level Talks
War Secretary Pete Hegseth met with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, last week. During the meeting, he urged Nigeria to show “urgent and lasting action” to protect Christian civilians. The Pentagon said the U.S. wants to work alongside Nigeria to degrade extremist groups that threaten both countries.
A Wider U.S. Strategy in Africa
Jonathan Pratt, head of the State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs, testified before Congress that any U.S. military or intelligence involvement would be part of a broader plan. He said Washington aims to combine security, policing and economic measures to deliver long-term results.
Wave of Abductions and Church Attacks
Recent attacks in Nigeria include the kidnapping of more than 300 students and 12 teachers from a Catholic school, along with a deadly church shooting that left two people dead and several worshippers abducted. Officials say Boko Haram and its offshoot, the Islamic State of West Africa Province, remain the largest drivers of the violence. While Christians are often targeted, Muslims outside extremist sects also face threats.
U.S. Calls Situation “Genocide Wearing the Mask of Chaos”
At a United Nations event on Tuesday, U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz described the killings as “a genocide wearing the mask of chaos.” Rap superstar Nicki Minaj joined the event, calling for global support and religious freedom for all Nigerians.
