Nigeria welcomes U.S. aid against insurgents amid sovereignty concerns after Trump's threats

Nigeria has expressed willingness to accept U.S. assistance in combating Islamist insurgents, provided its territorial integrity is respected, following President Donald Trump's threats of military action over alleged mistreatment of Christians. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and his advisers emphasized that the violence affects multiple communities and is rooted in complex religious, ethnic, and political issues, with the majority of victims being Muslim rather than Christian. Tinubu rejected accusations of religious intolerance and highlighted his administration's efforts to protect religious freedom for all citizens. Trump, however, threatened to cut off U.S. aid and prepare for rapid military intervention if Nigeria does not address the killings of Christians. Nigerian officials remain hopeful that discussions between the two leaders will lead to effective joint efforts against terrorism, underscoring the need for respecting Nigeria's sovereignty in any cooperation. The Islamist insurgency, notably by groups like Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province, has caused extensive harm, largely confined to Nigeria's northeast over the past 15 years.