US Military Wraps Up Nigeria Plans, With Several Options To Quell Violence | Sahara Reporters

US Military Considers Options to Address Violence in Nigeria

American forces are unlikely to end the decades-long insurgency in Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, despite President Donald Trump’s directive, according to military officials cited by the New York Times. Experts say that only a large-scale campaign, similar to those in Iraq or Afghanistan, might make a significant difference—an option that does not seem under serious consideration.

Limitations on US Military Engagement

Military officials emphasized that U.S. involvement could not fully resolve the conflict, but some measures may still limit militant activities. The Air Force might carry out airstrikes against a small number of known militant compounds in northern Nigeria.

Possible Tactical Actions

Development of Military Plans

These strategies were developed this week by officials from United States Africa Command and submitted to the Joint Staff at the Pentagon, aiming to explore potential limited interventions.

"Despite President Trump’s order that the Pentagon prepare to intervene militarily in Nigeria to protect Christians from attack by Islamic militants, U.S. forces are unlikely to be able to end a decades-long insurgency that has claimed lives across sectarian lines in Africa’s most populous country," military officials said.

Author's summary: The US military is exploring restrained strategies to curb violence in Nigeria but acknowledges that ending the insurgency without a major campaign is improbable.

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Sahara Reporters Sahara Reporters — 2025-11-08

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