Overview
- President Donald Trump directed the Defense Department to prepare for potential operations in Nigeria targeting Islamist militants he blames for attacks on Christians.
- Trump announced the immediate suspension of all U.S. aid and assistance to Nigeria.
- The administration restored Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern over alleged violations of religious freedom.
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth publicly affirmed preparations for action, referring to his department as the Department of War.
- President Bola Ahmed Tinubu rejected the characterization of Nigeria as religiously intolerant, and a presidency spokesperson said Nigeria would welcome U.S. assistance against insurgents if its territorial integrity is respected.