The United States military has reportedly developed contingency plans for potential action in Nigeria after former President Donald Trump instructed the Pentagon to “prepare to intervene” to protect Christians from terrorist attacks, according to The New York Times.
The report, published on Wednesday, stated that the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) presented multiple operational options to the Department of Defense. These proposals were created in response to Secretary Pete Hegseth’s request for plans aligned with Trump’s directive.
Military sources familiar with the discussions told The New York Times that the proposals were categorized as “heavy,” “medium,” and “light,” outlining different levels of U.S. engagement in Nigeria.
The “heavy option” would involve deploying an aircraft carrier strike group to the Gulf of Guinea, supported by fighter jets or long-range bombers targeting militant positions deep inside northern Nigeria.
Under the “medium option,” U.S. forces would employ MQ-9 Reaper and MQ-1 Predator drones for precision strikes on insurgent camps, convoys, and vehicles, backed by U.S. intelligence.
The “light option” emphasizes intelligence sharing, logistical support, and joint operations with Nigerian forces against Boko Haram and other Islamist groups accused of abductions, mass killings, and attacks on churches.
Despite the planning, Pentagon officials reportedly cautioned that limited strikes or drone operations alone would be unlikely to end Nigeria’s long-running insurgency.
A full-scale campaign, similar to previous U.S. interventions in Iraq or Afghanistan, would be required to decisively address the threat, officials said, though no one in Washington is currently advocating such action.
The planning follows public threats from Trump to deploy American military forces to Nigeria if the alleged persecution of Christians is not stopped.
The Nigerian government has repeatedly rejected claims of targeted religious persecution, stating that its security forces prioritize the protection of all citizens, regardless of faith.
Since 2023, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has reportedly neutralized over 13,500 militants and rescued more than 11,000 hostages in ongoing counterterrorism operations.
China has also expressed support for Nigeria, emphasizing its opposition to foreign intervention under the pretext of religion or human rights issues.
A Chinese official highlighted that Nigeria remains open to cooperation with the U.S. on counterterrorism matters, emphasizing respect for national sovereignty.
Trump reiterated his position on Wednesday, asserting that Christianity is facing an “existential threat” in Nigeria.
He added that the United States is “ready, willing, and able to save our Great Christian Population around the World” if such atrocities continue.
Experts warn that any direct military intervention in Nigeria could trigger significant geopolitical consequences in West Africa and beyond.
Regional analysts also note that limited strikes may not resolve the structural challenges posed by Boko Haram and other extremist groups.
U.S. lawmakers remain divided over potential engagement, with debates centering on the risks of foreign intervention and the precedent it could set.
Human rights organizations have expressed concern over escalating tensions, calling for diplomatic solutions to prevent further civilian harm.
The U.S. military’s contingency plans reportedly include detailed assessments of operational risks, collateral damage, and logistical requirements.
Under all scenarios, intelligence and coordination with Nigerian security forces remain central to any potential intervention.
The planning process also considers the possibility of humanitarian consequences and the need to protect vulnerable civilian populations.
Trump’s public statements have intensified scrutiny over the U.S. role in international conflicts framed around religious persecution.
Meanwhile, Nigerian officials stress their commitment to national security and insist that foreign involvement should respect Nigeria’s sovereignty.
The Pentagon has not released an official statement regarding the proposed plans, citing the sensitive nature of operational details.
Analysts say that while the contingency plans signal preparedness, actual deployment of U.S. forces would depend on both political and strategic considerations.
The debate in Washington is likely to continue as lawmakers, military officials, and human rights organizations weigh the implications of potential intervention.
Observers have noted that Trump’s rhetoric may further complicate diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Nigeria.
The New York Times report emphasizes that the U.S. Africa Command has outlined detailed options but that final decisions would require high-level approval.
With tensions rising, both Washington and Abuja are under pressure to balance counterterrorism efforts with diplomatic engagement.
The situation remains fluid, with international attention focused on Nigeria’s ongoing fight against extremist violence and the protection of minority communities.
This report complies with M10News Editorial Standards for factual accuracy and originality © 2025 M10News
