Nigeria found itself on edge Monday after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to launch military operations against the country over alleged genocide against Christians. In Abuja, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu convened an emergency meeting with service chiefs and heads of security agencies to assess the gravity of the situation and plan a coordinated national response.
Trump’s late-night remarks, made aboard Air Force One, hinted that “ground operations and airstrikes could be part of the U.S. attack in Nigeria.” The announcement sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles and prompted immediate regional reactions. Chad swiftly closed its borders with Nigeria, citing security concerns and fears of cross-border infiltration as tensions heightened.
Inside Nigeria, reactions poured in from political figures and regional leaders. Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke urged renewed diplomacy, emphasizing dialogue and partnership rather than confrontation. Meanwhile, the Pan-Yoruba group Afenifere blamed the federal government for failing to implement state police and demanded urgent restructuring to prevent external interference.
Opposition leader Peter Obi condemned the U.S. designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” describing it as a result of “incompetent leadership and poor resource management.” He lamented that over 10,000 lives had been lost to insecurity since May 2023, calling the situation avoidable with responsible governance.
Security analysts expressed concern that any U.S. military involvement could worsen Nigeria’s instability. Professor Oladiipo Kolawole warned that such action might escalate violence and displace thousands more citizens. Professor Femi Otubanjo described Trump’s statement as “frivolous and infantile,” insisting it did not represent U.S. foreign policy but rather Trump’s personal bias.
Economists also weighed in on the potential fallout. Dr. Muda Yusuf of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise cautioned that the threat could damage Nigeria’s image as a stable investment destination, eroding investor confidence and unsettling markets.
As the world watches, Nigeria stands at a delicate crossroads—caught between global scrutiny, domestic insecurity, and the urgent need for diplomatic finesse. For now, all eyes remain on Abuja’s next move as leaders scramble to contain the crisis before it spills beyond words into action.
