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Pete Hegseth, U.S. Secretary of War, has issued a strongly worded statement condemning what he described as systematic attacks on Christians in Nigeria.
Hegseth said armed groups, including Boko Haram, ISWAP and militia elements, have carried out targeted violence for years, adding that global silence has encouraged the scale of the crisis.
He said the United States views the killings as a serious humanitarian concern and noted that Washington has restored Nigeria’s designation as a “country of particular concern” over religious freedom violations.
The secretary said available data from American agencies and international monitors point to a steep rise in deaths, the destruction of worship centres and the displacement of communities over the past 16 years.
Hegseth criticised what he called the reluctance of previous administrations and parts of the international community to acknowledge the religious dimension of the attacks.
He also accused the Nigerian government of failing to adequately protect affected communities, citing delayed responses and what he called poor accountability for perpetrators.
Hegseth said President Donald Trump has directed the US Department to prepare plans aimed at supporting at-risk civilian populations in Nigeria, though he did not disclose operational details.
He added that all forms of US military and financial assistance to Nigeria would be reviewed under the new designation.
The secretary urged the Nigerian authorities to strengthen security around vulnerable areas and ensure that justice mechanisms address long-standing grievances.
He told Christian communities in the country that the US “will not ignore their plight”, adding that Washington intends to work with partners to reduce attacks and improve civilian protection.
Hegseth also criticised Western media organisations for what he described as downplaying the religious element of the killings, saying the pattern of violence should be acknowledged for what it is.
He said the United States would continue to evaluate the situation and act in line with its foreign policy commitments and humanitarian obligations.
