In an interview published Thursday by The New York Times, United States President Donald Trump indicated that the U.S. could carry out additional military strikes in Nigeria if violence against Christians persists.
When asked whether the December 25 military operation against Islamic State affiliates in northwest Nigeria marked the beginning of a broader campaign, Trump said, “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 Christmas Day strike, which Washington said targeted Islamic State militants in coordination with the Nigerian government, attracted global attention. Trump described it as a response to what he characterised as repeated killings of Christians by extremist groups—a framing that has sparked debate over the motives for U.S. involvement.
Pressed on comments by his senior Africa adviser that groups such as Islamic State West Africa Province and Boko Haram have killed more Muslims than Christians, Trump acknowledged that Muslims were also victims but insisted that Christians are predominantly targeted.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has rejected claims of genocide against Christians, emphasising that violent armed groups operate with mixed motives and have killed both Muslims and Christians across the country’s troubled north.
The Nigerian government has stressed cooperation with international partners on counter‑terrorism while reiterating that violence against any community—regardless of faith—is unacceptable.
