The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, convened a high-level meeting in Abuja with the Service Chiefs and heads of various security and intelligence agencies, amid rising international concern over Nigeria’s internal security challenges.
Although the discussions were held behind closed doors, sources indicate that the meeting centred on recent reports alleging that U.S. President Donald Trump had instructed American defence officials to prepare for potential military intervention in Nigeria.
These reports emerged after statements credited to Trump on his Truth Social account, where he allegedly accused the Nigerian government of allowing “genocidal attacks” against Christians. He reportedly threatened to cut off all U.S. aid to Nigeria unless President Bola Tinubu’s administration acted swiftly to stop the killings.
In the purported post, Trump was quoted as saying: “If the Nigerian Government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the USA will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria and may move into that disgraced country, guns blazing, to eliminate the terrorists responsible. I have ordered our Department of War to prepare for possible action. If we strike, it will be swift, fierce, and decisive — just as the terrorists attack our beloved Christians.”
While Nigeria’s government has yet to issue an official response, the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) is expected to release a statement after consulting with relevant agencies.
A source familiar with the meeting disclosed that Ribadu plans to brief senior editors and media leaders on the discussions, particularly concerning Trump’s alleged remarks and Nigeria’s security stance.
Earlier, the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, confirmed that the NSA and security chiefs would address the media to clarify Nigeria’s position, respond to the genocide allegations, and update citizens on ongoing efforts to strengthen national security and stability.
