The United States military has reportedly drawn up contingency plans for airstrikes in Nigeria, following a directive from President Donald Trump to “prepare to intervene” in response to alleged terrorist attacks targeting Christians.
According to reports, the Pentagon received the order after Nigeria was designated a “Country of Particular Concern” over religious persecution. The U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) has submitted three levels of engagement options:
- Heavy Option: Deploying an aircraft carrier strike group to the Gulf of Guinea for full-scale airstrikes
- Medium Option: Drone strikes targeting militant camps and convoys
- Light Option: Intelligence sharing and operational support to Nigerian forces
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi reacted to the development, blaming Nigeria’s insecurity on “a lack of competent leadership” and urging both nations to pursue diplomatic solutions rather than military escalation.
The Nigerian government has yet to issue an official response, but analysts warn that foreign intervention could heighten tensions and challenge Nigeria’s sovereignty.
