Trump Redesignates Nigeria, Threatens Military Action

President Donald Trump redesignated Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern" for religious freedom, saying Christianity faces an "existential threat" and accusing "radical Islamists" of killing thousands. After announcing the designation, he ordered the Pentagon to prepare for possible military action, threatened to cut off all U.S. aid, and used rhetoric about going "guns‑a‑blazing" to "completely wipe out" Islamic militants he says are targeting Christians. Human rights groups and watchdogs report high numbers of Christians killed, kidnapped or displaced in 2025 and prior years, attributing many attacks to Boko Haram, ISWAP and Fulani‑associated militants. Nigerian officials, including President Bola Tinubu, rejected the characterization and said the violence reflects broader insecurity and constitutional protections for all faiths. Trump also directed Rep. Riley Moore and House appropriations leaders to conduct an immediate review, and GOP lawmakers praised the designation and vowed legislative or investigative follow‑ups. It remains unclear what legal or operational steps would follow the threats, or how sanctions, aid cuts or any military measures would be applied or affect the region.