Table of Contents
- Emergency Base Proposal
- Deterrent Against Jihadists
- Humanitarian Aid Deployment
- US Response to Violence
- Nigerian Government Response
- Threat of Military Action
In an unexpected turn of events, foreign policy expert Dr. Walid Phares has urged U.S. President Donald Trump to set up an emergency base in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, asserting that Port Harcourt is the primary port city of the Biafra region.
He argued that this measure would serve to deter Boko Haram and other jihadist organizations in Nigeria, as well as to halt their attacks on Christians and threats against moderate Muslims.
Phares, who also holds the position of Co-Secretary General of the Transatlantic Parliamentary Group, shared his thoughts on his X handle on Sunday, claiming that such an initiative would facilitate the swift deployment of international humanitarian aid, particularly support from American churches.
DAILY POST reported that last week, Trump designated Nigeria as a country of particular concern.
The U.S. President pointed to what he described as ongoing violence against Christians and the government's failure to safeguard religious minorities.
However, the Nigerian government has denied any persecution of religious groups within the country.
On Saturday, Trump proceeded to threaten military action against Nigeria if prompt measures are not taken regarding the situation.
He stated: “To deter #BokoHaram and other jihadist groups in Nigeria—and to stop their massacres of Christians and threats against moderate Muslims—I advise the #Trump administration to establish an emergency base in #PortHarcourt, the main port city of the #Biafra region.
“Such a move would enable the rapid deployment of international humanitarian aid, particularly assistance from American churches. President @realDonaldTrump has issued two strong statements condemning the jihadist attacks on Nigerian Christian communities and has directed the Secretary of War to prepare contingency plans for the “protection of communities” in Nigeria, should the federal government fail to stop the jihadists—as has been the case for years in northern and central Nigeria. In the meantime, targeted strikes against jihadist forces could also be considered.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of establishing an emergency base in Port Harcourt?
The proposed emergency base aims to deter Boko Haram and other jihadist groups, as well as to facilitate rapid deployment of international humanitarian aid, particularly from American churches.
What has the U.S. President said about Nigeria's situation?
President Trump has expressed concern over ongoing violence against Christians in Nigeria and the government's inability to protect religious minorities, leading to his designation of Nigeria as a country of particular concern.
How has the Nigerian government responded to these claims?
The Nigerian government has denied any persecution of religious groups within the country, countering the claims made by the U.S. President.
What are the potential consequences mentioned by President Trump?
Trump has suggested that if the situation does not improve quickly, there may be military action taken against Nigeria.
