Trump Warns of More US Strikes in Nigeria if Violence Against Christians Continues
US President Donald Trump has signalled that the United States could carry out more military strikes in Nigeria if attacks against Christians do not stop. This statement comes after a US airstrike on December 25, 2025, targeting Islamic State-affiliated militants in northwest Nigeria.
In an interview with The New York Times on Thursday, Trump was asked if the Christmas Day operation marked the beginning of a larger military campaign. He replied, “I’d love to make it a one-time strike… but if they continue to kill Christians, it will be a many-time strike.” The December operation was carried out at the request of the Nigerian government and focused on Islamic State affiliates, attracting international attention due to its timing on Christmas Day.
Trump described the strike as a response to repeated attacks on Christians by extremist groups in Nigeria. His comments have sparked debate over whether the US intervention is motivated by religious considerations.
When asked about remarks from his senior Africa adviser pointing out that groups like the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram have killed more Muslims than Christians, Trump acknowledged that Muslims are also victims. He, however, insisted that “it’s mostly Christians” who are being targeted.
The Nigerian government has rejected claims of a genocide against Christians. Officials say violent groups act with mixed motives and have attacked both Muslims and Christians across the northern regions. Abuja has stressed that cooperation with international partners like the US is focused on counter-terrorism, and any violence against communities of any faith is unacceptable.
The US airstrike in northwest Nigeria targeted militant camps, and details about casualties and damage have not been fully disclosed. Nigeria continues to work with the US and other international partners to fight terrorism while maintaining that the conflict is not purely religious.
Trump’s latest comments suggest that the US may adopt a more active military role in Nigeria if extremist attacks persist, especially against Christian communities, raising questions about the scope and future of American involvement in Nigeria’s security challenges.
