The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, on Monday met with service chiefs and heads of security and intelligence agencies in Abuja following threats by United States President Donald Trump to launch military action against Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians.
The high-level security meeting, held at the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), assessed the implications of Trump’s remarks and deliberated on measures to coordinate a unified national security response.
Sources disclosed that the meeting, which began in the afternoon, was convened to review intelligence assessments and prepare for possible diplomatic and security outcomes.
The resolutions reached are expected to be communicated through official NSA channels.
Trump, in a post on his Truth Social platform, accused Nigeria’s government of failing to protect Christians from Islamist militants, warning that the U.S. “will attack and it will be fast, vicious, and sweet.” He later told reporters that both ground and air operations were being considered as part of the response.
Following the statement, Chad announced the immediate closure of its borders with Nigeria, citing security concerns and possible spillover effects of any U.S. military operation. President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno reportedly ordered a military lockdown along the border to prevent infiltration by armed groups.
Reacting to the development, Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, called for renewed diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and the United States, describing dialogue as the only path to resolving the dispute.
Similarly, the Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, warned against foreign intervention and urged President Bola Tinubu to expedite the creation of state police to curb insecurity.
In a separate statement, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, said Trump’s stance was a reflection of Nigeria’s deteriorating security and governance, adding that the country’s designation as a “Country of Particular Concern” stemmed from leadership failures.
Security and diplomatic experts also cautioned that Trump’s comments could escalate tensions and harm investor confidence in Nigeria.
Professor Femi Otubanjo of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) described the threat as “frivolous and reactionary,” arguing that it did not reflect official U.S. foreign policy.
Dr. Muda Yusuf, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), warned that the remarks could undermine Nigeria’s global image and deter investment, despite lacking substantive policy backing.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian government is expected to issue an official statement addressing the situation, as diplomatic discussions continue to prevent escalation and maintain bilateral relations with the United States.
