According to reports obtained by Throwback Times Nigeria, the West African nation, popularly known as the “Giant of Africa,” may soon feel the impact of heightened U.S. military pressure if the situation persists.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump revealed that he had directed the U.S. Department of War to begin preparations for possible strikes. He also disclosed that U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned Nigeria could face immediate suspension of American aid and deployment of troops to “completely wipe out Islamic terrorists.”
Although a full-scale war is not anticipated, Trump’s comments have generated widespread anxiety across Nigeria. Analysts note that any targeted U.S. military operation could directly impact northern and central states where terrorist activity remains high.
States Likely to Be Affected by Potential U.S. Military Strikes
1. Borno State – The epicentre of Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgencies, likely to be the first target of any anti-terror action.
2. Yobe State – Another major conflict zone, long ravaged by terrorism and mass displacement.
3. Adamawa State – A site of continued military operations against insurgents in the northeast.
4. Kaduna State – Plagued by banditry and sectarian violence; experts warn airstrikes could hit its volatile northern region.
5. Katsina State – Frequent attacks by bandits and kidnappers make it a potential target in U.S. counter-terror efforts.
6. Zamfara State – Known for violent mining conflicts and terror cells; calls for stronger security are ongoing.
7. Sokoto State – Faces border-related banditry and smuggling, possibly drawing U.S. surveillance or drone strikes.
8. Niger State – Strategically close to Abuja, increasingly vulnerable to armed group incursions.
9. Kano State – A major northern hub with rising extremist concerns.
10. Kogi State – Central location and reports of militant infiltration heighten its risk.
11. Benue State – A flashpoint of farmer-herder clashes and communal killings.
12. Plateau State – Longstanding religious and ethnic conflicts may attract international scrutiny.
13. Taraba State – Active insurgent hideouts could make it a military interest zone.
14. Gombe State – Noted for rising terror-linked movement across borders.
15. Bauchi State – Increasing extremist activity puts it under possible U.S. radar.
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Earlier, Trump had placed Nigeria on the U.S. “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) list, citing religious persecution of Christians. The Nigerian government has denied these allegations, insisting its armed forces are actively combating terrorism and protecting all citizens—though critics argue the situation on the ground tells a different story.
Presidential spokesperson Daniel Bwala confirmed that both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Donald Trump are expected to engage in talks on security cooperation, emphasizing a “shared commitment to fighting terrorism and safeguarding humanity.”
Public Reaction
Trump’s threat has ignited heated debates across Nigeria and on social media platforms.
While some Nigerians view his statement as an undue interference in the country’s sovereignty, others believe it could pressure the government to intensify its anti-terror campaign and better protect vulnerable communities.
Source: Throwback Times Nigeria
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