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US Military Command drafts “light, medium, heavy” response plans to target Nigeria
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Trump warns Abuja to stop Christian killings or face decisive military action
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Analysts fear intervention could worsen instability across West Africa
The United States military has reportedly submitted contingency plans for possible air and ground strikes on Nigeria, following President Donald Trump’s directive to prepare for action over alleged Christian genocide in the country.
A report published by The New York Times titled “US Military Draws Up Nigeria Plans, With Limited Options to Quell Violence” revealed that the US Africa Command (AFRICOM) developed and submitted the plans to the Department of War earlier this week at the request of Secretary Pete Hegseth.
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According to US officials cited in the report, the plan outlines three levels of response — light, medium, and heavy — with the “heavy option” representing the most forceful strike the US could launch against Nigeria.
READ ALSO: Youth Leaders Condemn Trump’s Remarks, Warn Against Military Intervention in Nigeria
President Trump had last Friday designated Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’, alleging continuous massacres of Christians in parts of the country. He warned that if the Nigerian government fails to end the violence, US forces will intervene militarily.
“If the government in Abuja cannot protect its citizens, we will act to defend freedom and faith,” Trump was quoted as saying.
The move has triggered diplomatic unease, with fears that any foreign military intervention could worsen insecurity, deepen ethnic divisions, and destabilise the entire West African sub-region.
Political observers say Washington’s latest stance reflects a growing shift in its foreign policy under Trump, blending religious rhetoric with hard-power strategy.
In Nigeria, the proposed strike has sparked strong reactions from civil and political groups.
The Forum of National Youth Leaders of All Political Parties condemned the threat, urging both nations to adopt dialogue and partnership rather than confrontation. Similarly, the Ohanaeze Youth Council described the US plan as “an unacceptable interference” and instead called for a referendum to address internal issues peacefully.
Meanwhile, the White House has confirmed that President Trump is “monitoring the situation in Nigeria very closely.”
