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Trump Threatens Military Action in Nigeria Over Alleged Christian Killings
Trump Threatens Military Action in Nigeria Over Alleged Christian Killings
United States President, Donald Trump, has threatened to send American troops into Nigeria over what he described as the government’s failure to protect Christians from Islamist militants.
Trump, in a post on his social media platform on Saturday, said he had instructed the “Department of War” to prepare for “possible action” in Nigeria, warning that he could send troops “guns-a-blazing” if the Nigerian government failed to act.
“If we attack, it will be fast, vicious, and sweet — just like the terrorist thugs attack our cherished Christians!” Trump wrote.
He also announced that he had designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged religious persecution, a move that could lead to sanctions under United States law.
The comments have triggered outrage and anxiety across Nigeria, with many citizens and analysts calling for restraint and urging the Federal Government to respond firmly but diplomatically.
Reacting to Trump’s remarks, a senior aide to President Bola Tinubu, Daniel Bwala, said Nigeria would welcome U.S. assistance in tackling terrorism but stressed that the country’s sovereignty must be respected.
Speaking on the BBC’s Newshour programme, Bwala said, “Nigeria would appreciate help in fighting jihadist groups, but any military action must be carried out jointly. We are a sovereign nation and not a satellite state.”
Bwala, who is also a Christian pastor, added that Trump’s comments should not be taken literally, saying, “We know Trump has a unique way of communicating. His heart is to help Nigeria fight insecurity.”
Bwala also dismissed claims of a targeted genocide against Christians, stressing that terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have attacked people of all faiths.
“The jihadists are not attacking based on religion. Muslims, Christians, and even people of no faith have suffered from their violence,” he said.
President Tinubu, in a statement issued later, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting citizens of all religions, saying the characterisation of Nigeria as religiously intolerant “does not reflect our national reality.”
“Our security challenges affect people across all faiths and regions. The government remains committed to working with international partners, including the United States, to secure the nation,” Tinubu said.
Trump’s post drew a quick response from U.S. Defence Secretary, Pete Hegseth, who replied, “Yes sir. The Department of War is preparing for action. Either the Nigerian Government protects Christians, or we will kill the Islamic terrorists committing these horrible atrocities.”
The statement has sparked global concern, with many observers describing it as reckless and potentially destabilising for the already volatile West African region.
Security and human rights experts have, however, disputed Trump’s claim that Christians are being targeted more than Muslims.
Conflict monitoring group, the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED), says data does not support claims of religious genocide.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, is almost evenly split between Christians and Muslims. Analysts say most of the victims of jihadist attacks in the North-East have, in fact, been Muslims.
In the Middle Belt, recurring clashes between mostly Muslim herders and largely Christian farmers are driven more by competition for land and water than religion, with atrocities committed on both sides.
Extra
Diaspora Watch – Vol. 98
Diaspora Watch Newspaper is pleased to announce the release of its 98th edition, presenting readers with another rich blend of impactful stories, insightful analyses and inspiring human-interest features from across the world.
Leading this edition is the heartwarming cover story, “Godchildren Honour Emmanuel and Joy Ojiribe at 40th Anniversary Celebration in US,” which chronicles the remarkable legacy of love, faith, mentorship and family built over four decades by the celebrated couple, culminating in a memorable celebration attended by loved ones and admirers.
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The edition also brings readers up to speed on major international developments, including US President Donald Trump’s announcement of an Intel-Apple chip deal, Ghana’s move towards a local takeover of Gold Fields’ Tarkwa mine, CARICOM’s renewed commitment to improving citizens’ lives under incoming Chair Pierre, the possibility of cocoa prices rising above $10,000 per tonne once again, a comprehensive 14-Point Roadmap to De-escalation and Reconstruction, Singapore’s impressive 38.4 per cent growth in non-oil exports driven by artificial intelligence, and warnings from Kew scientists that AI and digitalization could play a crucial role in preventing global plant extinction.
On the back page, readers will find the inspiring story of Adenugba, who has been honored with the African Diaspora Fashion Platform Award, recognizing excellence, creativity and outstanding contributions to fashion within the global African diaspora community.
As always, Diaspora Watch Newspaper remains committed to delivering credible journalism, promoting African excellence, strengthening diaspora engagement and providing readers with balanced perspectives on global affairs, business, innovation and development.
The 98th edition is now available to readers across print and digital platforms. We invite everyone to pick up a copy and stay informed on the stories shaping Africa, the diaspora and the wider world.
News
SpaceX to join Nasdaq-100 index July 7
SpaceX to join Nasdaq-100 index July 7
SpaceX will be added to the Nasdaq-100 Index on July 7, following confirmation by exchange operator Nasdaq, a move expected to trigger a surge in passive investment into the aerospace and artificial intelligence company.
The inclusion means exchange-traded funds and other investment vehicles that track the tech-heavy Nasdaq-100 Index will be required to purchase SpaceX shares, a development that typically boosts demand and supports a company’s stock price.
SpaceX, founded by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, made its Nasdaq debut on June 12 and has experienced volatile financial performance in recent years, alternating between periods of losses and modest profits.
The company reported a net loss of $4.9bn in its most recent financial year, underscoring the challenges it continues to face despite strong investor interest in its space technology and artificial intelligence businesses.
The company’s addition to the index comes after Nasdaq, alongside other major index providers including FTSE Russell and MSCI, eased some of its listing eligibility requirements in an effort to attract more companies seeking to list on U.S. exchanges.
The revised criteria include changes to profitability requirements, the waiting period after a company’s initial public offering and the number of publicly traded shares required for inclusion in certain indices.
Meanwhile, S&P Global has maintained a more cautious approach.
The index provider said earlier this month that it would not alter its eligibility requirements for SpaceX to join its flagship indices, including the benchmark S&P 500.
According to S&P Global, the company will not be considered for inclusion in the S&P 500 until it has been publicly listed for at least 12 months.
The development comes as other leading artificial intelligence firms, including OpenAI and Anthropic, are widely expected to pursue initial public offerings either later this year or in 2027, with analysts projecting valuations exceeding $1tn.
News
Uzodimma Backs FLAC, Urges Nigerians to Unite Against Cancer
Uzodimma Backs FLAC, Urges Nigerians to Unite Against Cancer
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the First Ladies Against Cancer, FLAC Nigeria, while calling on Nigerians to join efforts to combat cancer through increased awareness, early detection and sustained advocacy.
The governor made the pledge during a courtesy visit by members of FLAC and later at a gala night organised in their honour at the Government House in Owerri.
Speaking at the event, Uzodimma commended the organisation for its humanitarian interventions and contributions to improving cancer prevention, treatment and care across the country.
“I am excited to host you in Imo State and I commend your humanitarian services in Nigeria,” the governor said, assuring the delegation of his administration’s continued support for the organisation’s programmes.
He described Imo as the hospitality capital of the South-East and welcomed the delegates on behalf of the state government and people, assuring them of their safety during their stay.
The event also featured emotional testimonies from cancer survivors, including men, women and children, who recounted their experiences with the disease while encouraging Nigerians to embrace early screening and treatment.
Addressing guests at the gala night, Uzodimma stressed that the fight against cancer requires collective action, public education and efforts to eliminate the stigma associated with the disease.
He also lauded the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government for its investments in cancer prevention, treatment and palliative care, urging Nigerians to support ongoing reforms in the health sector.
“We need a new Nigeria where everyone participates in nation-building,” the governor said, adding that early detection remains critical to improving survival rates among cancer patients.
Earlier, the Chairperson of FLAC Nigeria and wife of the Imo State Governor, Mrs Chioma Uzodimma, said the delegation visited to appreciate the governor for his consistent support for the organisation’s advocacy and activities.
She explained that FLAC, whose membership comprises serving and former first ladies across the country, marks Cancer Survivors Month every June to celebrate survivors, inspire hope and raise awareness about the disease.
She described the governor as “a special friend of FLAC” and presented him with an award on behalf of the organisation in recognition of his support for its mission.
The gala night featured musical performances, a fashion parade by cancer survivors, comedy, cake cutting, presentation of gifts to survivors and a fundraising session to support the organisation’s advocacy programmes.
Mrs Uzodimma disclosed that more than N100m was raised during the fundraising to support FLAC’s ongoing cancer awareness and advocacy initiatives.
The delegation included the wives of the governors of Adamawa, Zamfara and Ogun states, Hajia Lami Fintiri, Hajia Huriyya Lawal and Mrs Bamidele Abiodun; immediate past FLAC Chairperson, Dr Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu; former First Lady of Niger State, Dr Amina Abubakar; and former First Lady of Oyo State and ambassador-designate, Dr Florence Ajumobi, among other dignitaries.
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