Overview
- Trump said the United States would halt all aid and could send forces unless Nigeria stops what he called the killings of Christians by Islamist militants.
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth publicly backed the order, stating the department is preparing for possible action to target the perpetrators.
- Nigerian President Bola Tinubu rejected the portrayal of the country as religiously intolerant, saying it does not reflect national reality.
- The move came a day after Nigeria was designated a Country of Particular Concern for religious freedom by the U.S. administration.
- Independent analysts and conflict data, including ACLED figures, indicate Nigeria’s violence is complex and has claimed both Christian and Muslim victims, challenging claims of a Christian‑specific campaign.