Nigeria’s top security leaders have entered an emergency session in Abuja following comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting possible military action in Nigeria.
The meeting, held at the National Counter Terrorism Centre on Monday, was led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
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The security chiefs and intelligence heads were present at the emergency meeting.
The agenda, according to senior government insiders, is to evaluate the security and diplomatic impact of Trump’s claims and prepare a coordinated national response.
Trump recently alleged that the Nigerian government has failed to protect Christians. He declared that the U.S. military could be mobilised to “act in Nigeria to tackle Islamist militancy,” sparking concern across diplomatic circles and prompting urgent consultations in Abuja.
Officials at the meeting are reviewing intelligence reports, discussing contingency actions, and reinforcing Nigeria’s position on sovereignty.
A top source familiar with the talks said discussions are centred on national security strategy and diplomatic engagement.
Government aides have dismissed the possibility of U.S. troops entering the country without Nigeria’s consent. Presidential adviser Daniel Bwala insisted that no foreign military can operate in Nigeria without the President’s approval.
After President Bola Tinubu rejected Trump’s claims, Trump escalated his remarks. “If the Nigerian Government continues to allow the killing of Christians…” he warned, before making further statements about military readiness and halting U.S. aid.
Tinubu responded firmly, stressing Nigeria’s constitutional protection of all religions. He maintained that the country is a secular democracy where both Christians and Muslims enjoy equal rights.
The President also noted ongoing security reforms since 2023 and appealed for diplomatic cooperation instead of inflammatory rhetoric.
Tinubu described the claim of religious targeting as a “mischaracterisation,” saying Nigeria values peaceful coexistence and continues to fight terrorism in all forms.
Although the NSA office has not yet released a public statement, officials say a formal national security briefing is expected after the meeting.
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