Trump’s comments on November 2, 2025 followed Washington’s decision to relist Nigeria among “Countries of Particular Concern” for religious freedom.

Nigeria rejected allegations of Christian persecution and insisted cooperation should be by consent.

Two Options on the Table

Asked aboard Air Force One whether he envisioned “troops on the ground” or “air strikes,” Trump answered, “Could be,” adding that Christians were being killed “in very large numbers.”

He said any U.S. action would be “fast, vicious and sweet,” and ordered the Department of War to prepare contingency plans. The statement followed a post threatening to “go into Nigeria guns-a-blazing.”

Abuja’s Conditional Welcome

Presidential aide Daniel Bwala said Nigeria would accept U.S. help “if it respects our territorial integrity,” adding that Trump’s remarks were taken “in his own style of communication.”

He warned that unilateral moves “would not be appropriate,” emphasizing cooperation between equal partners.

Religious-Freedom Designation

Nigeria’s return to the Countries of Particular Concern list places it alongside China, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia, and Pakistan.

The White House gave no evidence for claims of targeted killings, while Abuja insisted the violence affects citizens of all faiths.

Disputed Framing of Violence

Officials say thousands have been killed in attacks across several regions, with communities of all religions affected.

Nigeria’s government argues the issue is security, not faith, and that foreign interventions must recognize the country’s sovereignty.