'US will use Christians as scapegoat to harness our resources' - Nigerians react to Trump's threats: Video
Residents in Kano expressed deep scepticism on Thursday, November 6, over U.S. intentions after President Donald Trump threatened potential military action in Nigeria, citing alleged persecution of Christians.
The comments have fueled debate in a country grappling with complex security, ethnic and religious dynamics, as well as ongoing reforms affecting minority religious communities.
“America will just use these Christians as a scapegoat to attack Nigeria — not necessarily to salvage Christians but rather an attempt to harness the resources in Nigeria,” said Idris Salisu Rogo, a public affairs analyst and lecturer at Bayero University Kano.
Civil society voices also questioned Washington’s approach, insisting support should come through partnership, not force. “If they want to support Nigeria, it is not necessary to come through an invasion or through the American military,” argued activist Salisu Yusuf. “They could provide training to Nigerian security forces.”
Trump made the remarks at a rally in Florida, citing attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria’s northern and central regions.
His comments have drawn swift pushback from Nigerian officials and added fresh strain to already sensitive geopolitical relations, with many Nigerians insisting that internal challenges require domestic solutions — not foreign troops.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
