By Eteteonline
Following President Donald Trump’s order to prepare for potential action on a claim of Christian genocide, the US military filed backup plans, advancing a potential US military action against terrorists in Nigeria. The New York Times reports that at Secretary Pete Hegseth’s request, the US Africa Command (AFRICOM) has prepared and submitted its alternatives to the Department of War.
This is in response to President Donald Trump’s directive for the Pentagon to “prepare to intervene” in order to defend Christians from terrorist assaults. The US military has allegedly developed backup plans for possible airstrikes in Nigeria.
According to the report, which was released on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, the Department of War received many operational alternatives from the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM). “Heavy,” “medium,” and “light” are the three choices for participation in Nigeria that are outlined in the recommendations, according to military authorities, and are meant to be escalatory. These are some of the possibilities that AFRICOM developed and sent to the Pentagon’s Joint Staff.
The “heavy option” would involve the deployment of a US aircraft carrier strike group to the Gulf of Guinea, supported by fighter jets or long-range bombers to pound militant targets deep within northern Nigeria.
The “medium option” suggests using MQ-9 Reaper and MQ-1 Predator drones to launch focused attacks against rebel vehicles, convoys, and camps. This strategy entails utilizing American drones to carry out airstrikes against identified militant group-occupied compounds in northern Nigeria.
Conversely, the “light option” emphasizes intelligence exchange, logistical assistance, and cooperative operations with Nigerian forces in opposition to Boko Haram and other Islamist organizations. To expel Boko Haram militants who have established themselves in rural hamlets in the country’s north, American forces and the Nigerian army could conduct raids on settlements.
On Thursday, November 6, 2025, President Bola Tinubu reiterated his administration’s resolve to eradicate terrorism and bring about enduring peace throughout the nation. He gave Nigerians and foreign allies his word that his government is unwavering in its commitment to economic growth, unity, and security.
Shortly after swearing in two new ministers and before presiding over the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, the President made the announcement at the State House’s Council Chamber in Abuja.
Speaking publicly for the first time since the US designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” President Tinubu remarked that “The most important thing is the fact that despite the political headwinds and the fear of our people, we will continue to engage with partners.
“The success of the $2.3 billion Eurobond that was over-subscribed by 400 per cent is the most assuring.
“So, the task ahead is immense; we are engaging the world diplomatically, and we assure all of you that we will defeat terrorism in this country.
“The task ahead is immense, but it is our resolve to move forward with unity and purpose, guided by the Renewed Hope Agenda to build a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient Nigeria.”
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