Nigerian Army Chief Vows to Intensify Operations After Trump’s Military Threat
Nigeria’s new army chief, Waidy Shaibu, pledged on Friday to escalate military operations against armed groups in the country’s northeast, days after U.S. President Donald Trump warned of possible military action against Nigeria if the government failed to curb violence against Christians.
Last week, Trump placed Nigeria on the list of “countries of particular concern” regarding violations of religious freedoms and said on Saturday that he had directed the U.S. Department of Defense to “prepare for swift military action” if Abuja did not act decisively against sectarian attacks.
Shaibu made his remarks during his first visit to Borno State, which has witnessed more than 16 years of conflict with armed groups including Boko Haram and the Islamic State in West Africa. The violence has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions of civilians.
Addressing the troops stationed in the region, Shaibu said: “The Nigerian Army will spare no effort in combating terrorism. We will continue the fight with renewed energy and a clear focus to eliminate this threat once and for all.”
The military chief affirmed that he would work to improve supplies, logistical support, and care for forces on the front lines, stressing the importance of “boosting soldiers’ morale and maintaining operational momentum.”
A statement issued by the army noted that the visit came at the direction of President Bola Tinubu to strengthen counterterrorism efforts.
Despite progress made by Nigerian forces in recent years, both Boko Haram and the Islamic State’s West Africa Province have intensified their attacks this year on military bases and civilians in the country’s northeastern states.
