WASHINGTON (FN) — The United States military has reportedly developed contingency plans for potential airstrikes in Nigeria following President Donald Trump’s directive to “prepare to intervene” in response to alleged attacks on Christians by extremist groups, according to a report published Wednesday by The New York Times.
Sources familiar with the matter said U.S. Africa Command presented a range of operational proposals to the Department of War, following a request from Secretary Pete Hegseth. The plans are said to reflect varying levels of engagement, categorized as “heavy,” “medium,” and “light.”
The most aggressive option would involve deploying an aircraft carrier strike group to the Gulf of Guinea, backed by fighter jets and long-range bombers targeting militant strongholds in northern Nigeria. A scaled-down alternative includes drone strikes using MQ-9 Reapers and MQ-1 Predators, aimed at insurgent camps and convoys, with support from U.S. intelligence assets.
The least invasive proposal centers on intelligence sharing and logistical support for joint operations with Nigerian forces against Boko Haram and other Islamist groups accused of mass killings and abductions. Pentagon officials reportedly acknowledged that limited strikes would have minimal impact without a broader campaign—an approach not currently under consideration.
Trump’s threat to deploy American forces was previously reported by PUNCH Online, though the Nigerian government has denied any formal communication or intent to escalate. Officials in Abuja dismissed the allegations of religious persecution as inaccurate and politically motivated.
China weighed in on Tuesday, voicing support for Nigeria and opposing foreign intervention under the pretext of religion or human rights. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing rejects the use of sanctions or force to influence internal affairs, reaffirming its strategic partnership with Nigeria.
The Nigerian government also rejected its inclusion on a U.S. list of countries violating religious freedom. Information Minister Mohammed Idris said the designation misrepresents Nigeria’s security challenges, emphasizing that both Christians and Muslims have suffered from terrorism.
Idris stated that since 2023, Nigerian forces have neutralized over 13,500 militants and rescued more than 11,000 hostages. He reiterated Nigeria’s openness to counterterrorism collaboration with the U.S., while stressing the importance of respecting national sovereignty.
Trump renewed his stance Wednesday evening, declaring that Christianity faces an “existential threat” in Nigeria and other nations. He said the U.S. stands “ready, willing, and able” to protect Christian populations worldwide.
The developments have sparked diplomatic unease and reignited debate in Washington over the scope and legality of U.S. military involvement in religiously framed conflicts abroad.
