Trump Accuses Nigerian Government of Inaction Amid Killings
The President of the United States, Donald Trump, has once again criticised the Nigerian government over its handling of attacks reportedly targeting Christians, warning that continued violence could lead to a suspension of American financial support. His remarks, made in an audio message aired on Fox News Radio’s The Brian Kilmeade Show on Friday, have intensified scrutiny of Nigeria’s security situation and sparked diplomatic responses.
In the recording, Trump expressed outrage at what he described as a “genocide” of Christians in Nigeria. “I think Nigeria is a disgrace. The whole thing is a disgrace. They are killing people by the thousands. It is a genocide, and I am really angry about it,” he said. He accused Nigerian authorities of failing to take effective measures to curb the killings, claiming the government had been largely inactive.
Trump also suggested that US financial support to Nigeria could be reconsidered if the alleged violence persists. “And we pay, you know, we give a lot of subsidy to Nigeria. We are going to end up stopping. The government has done nothing. They are very ineffective. They are killing Christians at will. You know, until I got involved in it two weeks ago, nobody even talked about it,” he stated.
The US president has repeatedly highlighted the plight of Christians in Nigeria, previously declaring the country a “Country of Particular Concern” over religious persecution. He described Christianity as “facing an existential threat” in Nigeria, warning that American response would be “fast, vicious, and sweet” should the government fail to act decisively.
Trump Criticises Nigeria Over Alleged Attacks on Christians, Threatens Withdrawal of US Support
Trump’s comments have raised tensions between the two countries, prompting Nigeria to engage directly with US authorities. A high-level delegation, led by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, traveled to Washington, DC, to hold consultations. The delegation included senior officials from government and security sectors: Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun; Attorney General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi (SAN); Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede; and Chief of Defence Intelligence Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Undiendeye, among others.
While in the US, the Nigerian team met with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon. According to Pentagon officials, Hegseth urged Nigeria to take urgent and decisive action against attacks targeting Christians and to strengthen security for vulnerable communities. The discussions focused on improving strategies to counter growing violence and ensuring that Nigerian authorities fulfill their responsibility to protect citizens.
Additionally, US Congressman Riley Moore met with the delegation on Wednesday night in Washington, DC. Moore described the discussions as “frank, honest, and productive,” focusing on counterterrorism collaboration and the protection of at-risk populations in Nigeria. The meetings underscore the international dimension of Nigeria’s security challenges, highlighting the concern of US lawmakers and officials over the safety of religious communities.
Nigeria has faced increasing criticism over its handling of ongoing violence, particularly in regions affected by clashes between extremist groups, criminal gangs, and communal militias. Reports of targeted attacks against Christians, including kidnappings and killings, have raised questions about the federal government’s ability to ensure safety and prevent further escalation.
The US has historically provided substantial financial assistance to Nigeria, supporting development, security, and humanitarian efforts. Trump’s comments linking aid to the government’s response to violence add a political dimension to the ongoing debate about accountability and security reforms in the country.
Officials in Nigeria have sought to reassure both domestic and international audiences of their commitment to addressing the situation. The delegation’s visit to the US represents part of broader diplomatic efforts to engage with partners and secure support for policies aimed at curbing violence.
The situation has drawn attention to the wider challenges facing Nigeria’s security architecture, including coordination between military, police, and intelligence agencies. The US-Nigeria discussions reflect an urgent need for practical solutions to ongoing threats, particularly those affecting religious minorities and vulnerable communities.
Trump’s renewed criticism serves as a reminder that international scrutiny on Nigeria’s handling of religious violence is intensifying. With American officials warning of possible consequences for continued inaction, Nigerian authorities face mounting pressure to demonstrate tangible results in protecting citizens and restoring stability.
Source- Punchng
