Christian Killings: Trump Threatens to Cut U.S. Aid to Nigeria

U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that his administration may cut off aid to Nigeria if the killings of Christians and rising cases of mass abductions continue across the country.

Speaking during an interview with Fox News Radio on Friday, Trump criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for allegedly failing to take meaningful action against persistent attacks on Christian communities.

“I’m really angry about it. What’s happening in Nigeria is a disgrace,” Trump said, accusing the Nigerian government of “doing nothing” to halt the violence.

The warning comes as senior U.S. officials intensify engagements with Nigeria over the growing security crisis. Last week, U.S. War Secretary Pete Hegseth met with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, amid Trump’s renewed threats to suspend aid.

According to a Pentagon statement, Hegseth stressed the need for Nigeria to “take urgent and sustained steps to stop violence against Christians,” adding that the U.S. aims to work closely with Nigeria to weaken terrorist networks operating in the region.

Jonathan Pratt, head of the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs, also testified before Congress on Thursday, noting that any U.S. military assistance would form part of a broader approach.

“This would span from security to policing to economic measures,” Pratt said. “We want a comprehensive strategy that delivers the best possible outcome.”

Wave of Attacks in Nigeria

Nigeria has experienced a surge in deadly attacks and kidnappings over the past week, with incidents reported in Kebbi, Kwara, and Niger States.

Kebbi State: On Monday, November 17, armed men stormed Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, abducting at least 25 students from their dormitory.

Niger State: On Friday, bandits attacked St. Mary’s Girls’ School in Papiri, Agwara LGA, kidnapping no fewer than 300 students. The assault occurred just four days after two senior staff members were killed during an earlier raid on Girls’ Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi.

Kwara State: In Eruku town, masked gunmen invaded a church service on Tuesday night, killing five worshippers and abducting several others, including the officiating pastor. A viral video showed the attackers storming the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Oke Isegun branch, and opening fire on congregants.


Eyewitnesses said the gunmen fled with the kidnapped victims through nearby bush paths after the attack.

The wave of violence has intensified calls for the Nigerian government to take stronger action to curb insecurity and protect vulnerable communities.