NSA Ribadu, Security Chiefs meet following Trump’s threat of Military action against Nigeria
NSA Ribadu, Security Chiefs meet following Trump’s threat of Military action against Nigeria
National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu yesterday convened a meeting with service chiefs and heads of security and intelligence agencies to discuss US President Donald Trump’s recent threats against Nigeria over alleged Christian genocide.
The meeting followed Trump’s statement on Sunday suggesting that ground operations and air strikes could be part of a US military response if Nigeria fails to protect Christians from Islamist militant groups.
Amid rising tensions, the government of Chad announced the immediate closure of its borders with Nigeria, citing security concerns linked to reports of potential US military plans.
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke called for renewed diplomatic engagement with the United States.
Meanwhile, the Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, criticised the Federal Government for not implementing state police to address Nigeria’s security challenges.
The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, said Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) stems from “lack of competent and committed leadership, as well as poor, imprudent deployment of available resources.”
International diplomacy experts warned that Trump’s threat could exacerbate violence in Nigeria and undermine investor confidence.
According to sources, Ribadu’s meeting, held at the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in Abuja, focused on assessing the potential implications of the US statement.
The NSA reportedly convened the session to coordinate a unified national security response and review intelligence reports on possible fallout. The outcome of the meeting is expected to be released through official NSA channels.
Last weekend, Trump had warned that if Nigeria failed to protect Christians from militant groups, he “will not hesitate to take military action against Nigeria.”
