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CSIS Africa Director Warns That Possible United States Military Intervention in Nigeria Could Endanger Christians

The Director of the Africa Programme at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, CSIS, Oge Onubogu, has issued a strong warning against any form of United States military intervention in Nigeria. She delivered the caution during a hearing of the United States House Subcommittee on Africa on Thursday, where lawmakers reviewed President Donald Trump’s decision to return Nigeria to the Country of Particular Concern list.

Onubogu told the committee that although concerns about attacks on Christian communities in northern Nigeria are legitimate, a unilateral military operation by the United States would create even greater risks. According to her, such action could unintentionally endanger the very Christians it aims to protect and intensify already fragile religious tensions in the country.

She explained that Nigeria’s complex security challenges require a long term, community based strategy rather than a rapid show of force. Onubogu urged lawmakers to prioritise diplomatic engagement, collaboration with civil society and support for conflict prevention initiatives that involve leaders from all religious groups.

She recommended that the United States engage closely with both Muslim and Christian communities, support moderate voices and ensure that any security assistance is tied to serious governance reforms. She added that coordination with state and local authorities is essential, as they are often the first responders to insecurity and have deeper knowledge of local dynamics.

Onubogu also called on President Bola Tinubu to appoint a capable and experienced Nigerian ambassador to Washington. She said Nigeria urgently needs a strong diplomatic presence in the United States to communicate the government’s position on insecurity, address misinformation and strengthen cooperation on stabilisation efforts.

Her comments came amid reports that the Pentagon has begun preliminary planning for potential intervention following recent statements from President Donald Trump. The former president indicated that the United States would consider acting independently if attacks attributed to Islamist extremists in northern Nigeria continue unchecked.

The hearing, chaired by Representative Chris Smith, brought together policy experts and religious leaders to discuss rising insecurity and concerns about religious freedom. Other speakers included Nigerian Catholic Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, who shared accounts of violence affecting churches in Benue State, and religious freedom advocate Nina Shea, who urged the United States to intensify diplomatic pressure while avoiding actions that could escalate tensions.

Lawmakers are expected to review the testimonies before making recommendations on how the United States should approach Nigeria’s security situation in the months ahead.

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