Abuja: Nigeria has said it is open to receiving assistance from the United States in its fight against terrorism and violent insurgencies, but stressed that any cooperation must fully respect the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The statement from the Nigerian presidency came after President Donald J. Trump said Washington was considering military action to protect Christians allegedly facing persecution in Nigeria. His remarks drew strong international attention and stirred reactions within the West African nation.
Presidential spokesperson Daniel Bwala said Nigeria values its long-standing relationship with the United States and welcomes support in intelligence sharing, training, and counter-terrorism operations. However, he made it clear that any form of foreign involvement must align with Nigeria’s internal laws and national control.
The Nigerian government also rejected suggestions that violence in the country amounts to a targeted genocide against Christians. Officials explained that the ongoing insecurity affects both Christians and Muslims, caused largely by terrorist groups, armed bandits, and ethnic clashes across several regions.
Security experts note that Nigeria faces complex challenges. In the northeast, Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province continue to carry out deadly attacks, while central and northwestern areas suffer from land conflicts and kidnappings. Despite years of military operations, the violence has not fully subsided.
The United States recently re-added Nigeria to its list of “Countries of Particular Concern” over alleged religious freedom violations. Analysts say this move could affect future defense cooperation and humanitarian assistance unless Nigeria improves civilian protection and accountability.
In response to Trump’s comments, Nigerian officials have called for calm and urged diplomatic dialogue. They are reportedly seeking a formal meeting between President Bola Tinubu and President Trump to clarify areas of cooperation and ensure mutual respect.
Observers warn that any foreign military action without Nigeria’s full approval could worsen tensions and fuel anti-foreign sentiment. They emphasize that while international support is useful, the roots of Nigeria’s security problems lie in poverty, weak governance, and ethnic divisions that cannot be solved by military force alone.
Both nations are now expected to hold further talks to determine the scope and nature of U.S. assistance. For Nigeria, the focus remains on strengthening its fight against terrorism while maintaining its national independence and dignity.