FG Says Recent Terror Attacks in Nigeria Stem from Trump’s Recent Statements

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, on Wednesday attributed the renewed wave of terrorist and bandit attacks in Nigeria to recent comments made by the President of the United States, Donald Trump.

In a press statement addressing the rise of violent extremism, banditry, and ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, Mr Akume stated that “recent pronouncements from the United States have inadvertently emboldened opportunistic violent groups seeking to exploit international narratives and make bold statements by attacking soft targets.”

The US president had in October classified Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over allegations of a Christian genocide. He also threatened to halt all U.S. assistance to Nigeria and deploy American troops if the alleged killings are not addressed. Additionally, Trump announced that he had directed the U.S. Department of War to prepare for “possible action” should the violence continue.

According to the SGF, insurgent networks had been substantially weakened and reduced to isolated acts of banditry before Trump’s remarks. He noted that some terror organizations are now attempting to use the statements to gain renewed attention.

“Before these statements, insurgency structures had been significantly degraded and reduced to isolated banditry. This resurgence underscores the vital need for collaboration—not public labelling—between Nigeria and the United States,” he said.

Mr Akume reaffirmed that Nigeria does not need foreign troops to combat insecurity, insisting that the country’s armed forces remain capable of defending the nation. He noted that the military has reclaimed occupied territories and significantly diminished the operational capabilities of Boko Haram and ISWAP in recent years.

However, he admitted that Nigeria still needs intelligence support, technological assistance, and advanced military equipment from the U.S. and other global partners to strengthen counterterrorism efforts.

“The Nigerian Armed Forces are highly capable, experienced and professional. They have reclaimed vast territories, degraded Boko Haram/ISWAP leadership structures, and conducted successful multi-theatre operations. Nigeria does not require foreign troops. What is needed is targeted support from partners, especially the United States, in the areas of intelligence cooperation, technology and military equipment support for advanced engagement against the insurgents,” he said.

Akume also dismissed claims portraying the conflict as a “Christian genocide,” stressing that available evidence shows that insurgents and criminal groups have attacked both churches and mosques, killing Muslims and Christians.

He emphasized that Nigeria remains a secular nation and that government appointments reflect the country’s diversity.

“Nigeria rejects any characterisation of the conflict as a genocide against Christians or any group. Verified evidence shows that insurgents and criminal networks attack both churches and mosques, killing Muslims and Christians alike. The Government remains committed to protecting all citizens and strengthening cooperation with international partners—especially the United States—to dismantle extremist and criminal networks.

“Nigeria is a secular state as guaranteed by various provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended. No state religion is adopted as a national religion and no citizen of Nigeria is above the Nigerian constitution,” he said.

In recent weeks, Nigeria has witnessed a rise in terrorist and bandit attacks, including the killing of a military officer, the abduction of schoolgirls, and an attack on a church in Kwara State.