Nigerian President Says Different in Face of US Attack Threat

Nigeria said it welcomes US help in combating Islamist militants, but it must be done with respect for the country's sovereignty. Earlier, US President Donald Trump threatened to take swift military action in Nigeria, accusing it of killing and abusing Christians.

Daniel Bola, an adviser to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, said, "We want Washington's help, but we must ensure our territorial integrity." He expressed hope that tensions between the two countries would decrease and work together to combat terrorism.

Although many people have been killed in attacks by Boko Haram and IS-linked groups in Nigeria, analysts say most of the victims are Muslims. In addition to religious disputes, experts say that political power, land and robbery are among the reasons behind the violence.

Trump has reinstated Nigeria on the list of countries that violate religious freedom. However, the Nigerian government claims to be committed to religious coexistence. President Tinubu is a Muslim, but his wife is a Christian, and religious balance is being maintained in the government.