President Donald Trump said he has ordered the Defense Department to prepare for possible military action in Nigeria, vowing to halt U.S. aid as he condemned what he called a mass slaughter of Christians. He also designated Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern for religious freedom. Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu rejected the label, saying the country protects all faiths; his press secretary called outside claims exaggerated and noted attacks hit Christians and Muslims. Local reports say most victims are Muslims in the north. Officials did not immediately comment.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.