U.S. President Donald Trump has said recent American military operations in Nigeria helped stop attacks on Christian communities, describing the action as a decisive step against terrorist groups operating in the country.
Eko Hot News reports that President Trump made the remarks on Friday during an event in Washington, where he reflected on his administration’s foreign policy and recent security operations.
According to the president, the military action significantly reduced attacks targeting Christian populations in parts of Nigeria affected by extremist activities.
Trump stated that his administration authorised the operation to respond to the activities of terrorist groups, saying the United States acted to support efforts aimed at improving security.
He told the audience that the operation contributed to ending what he described as the large-scale targeting of Christian communities in affected areas.
The president said protecting innocent lives and confronting terrorism remain priorities of his administration’s national security agenda.
Trump’s comments followed the U.S. military operation announced in December 2025, when American forces carried out strikes against Islamic State-linked targets in northwestern Nigeria. U.S. officials said the operation targeted extremist elements.
Reports at the time indicated that the operation was conducted in coordination with Nigerian authorities as part of ongoing counterterrorism cooperation between both countries.
The strikes drew international attention, with analysts offering differing views on their implications for regional security and long-term stability in Nigeria.
Security experts have noted that Nigeria faces complex security challenges involving multiple armed groups operating across different regions of the country.
The Nigerian government has continued to strengthen partnerships with international allies in efforts to improve intelligence sharing and combat terrorism while enhancing national security.
President Trump reiterated that his administration would continue taking action against terrorist organisations that threaten innocent civilians and regional stability.
His latest remarks have renewed discussions on international security cooperation, counterterrorism efforts, and the role of global partnerships in addressing security challenges across Africa.
