Christian genocide: US military draws up Nigeria strike plans after Trump’s directive

The United States military has reportedly drawn up contingency plans for potential strikes in Nigeria following a directive from President Donald Trump, who accused the Bola Tinubu administration of permitting what he described as the “mass slaughter” of Christians.

According to a New York Times report on Wednesday, the US Africa Command (AFRICOM) submitted a series of operational plans to the Department of War at the request of Secretary Pete Hegseth. The proposals outline three levels of engagement — heavy, medium, and light — each offering a distinct path for escalating US involvement.

Details of the Proposed Military Options

Sources cited by the New York Times said the “heavy option” represents the most aggressive course of action, involving the deployment of a US aircraft carrier group to the Gulf of Guinea. This plan would allow American fighter jets or long-range bombers to conduct precision strikes on designated targets deep inside northern Nigeria.

The “medium option” focuses on the use of drone warfare, with Predator and Reaper drones targeting militant camps, convoys, and vehicles linked to Islamist insurgents. These operations would rely on real-time intelligence and pattern-of-life tracking to ensure accurate strikes.

Under the “light option,” the United States would provide intelligence and logistical support to Nigerian forces, enabling partner-led missions against Boko Haram and other armed groups blamed for widespread violence and abductions in the north.

Military officials told the paper that the overarching objective of all three plans is to dismantle Islamist militant networks, protect Christian populations, and bring an end to the insurgency that has plagued Nigeria for more than a decade.

Strategic and Logistical Challenges

Analysts, however, have raised concerns over feasibility. The report noted that Washington’s two nearest drone bases — in Agadez and Niamey, Niger Republic — were vacated in August after US troops withdrew and Russian forces moved in. This development complicates potential US air operations in the region.

Background to the Tensions

President Trump’s order followed his declaration last week designating Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern (CPC)” under US law, citing alleged persecution of Christians. He also announced a suspension of arms sales and technical cooperation with the Tinubu government.

The announcement came amid growing pressure from right-wing US lawmakers, who have accused Nigerian authorities of failing to protect religious minorities.

In a video released by the White House, Trump said, “Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. The United States cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening there and in numerous other countries. We stand ready, willing, and able to save our great Christian population around the world.”

He had earlier warned that any US military response would be “fast, vicious, and sweet.”

Nigeria’s Response and Broader Context

The Nigerian government has firmly denied allegations of religious persecution, insisting that the country remains a secular democracy that protects the rights of all faiths. It attributes ongoing violence to terrorism, banditry, and communal clashes rather than religion.

Meanwhile, leaders of the US House Appropriations Committee have applauded Trump’s stance, describing Nigeria as “the most dangerous nation on Earth to follow Christ,” and urging immediate action to “end religious persecution.”