One Decision In Brief: Why Trump Is Threatening Military Action in Nigeria
Nov 4, 2025
Hosts delve into Trump’s surprising comments on potential military intervention in Nigeria, exploring local political dynamics. They highlight Nigeria’s desire for support while emphasizing sovereignty. The discussion touches on past UK and French military roles in the Sahel, the destabilizing influence of the Wagner Group, and the reduced U.S. military presence in Africa. They also examine the implications of resource extraction and the escalating crisis in Sudan, detailing the devastating human cost of its civil war.
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Misreading Nigeria's Violence
- President Trump's Nigeria comment reflects a mistaken, simplified reading of far-right Christian sites rather than on-the-ground realities.
- Sir Richard Dearlove warns the violence is often tribal and pastoralist, not purely religious.
Work With Nigeria, Don’t Unilaterally Strike
- Nigeria welcomes collaboration and needs partners for intelligence, air power, and logistics rather than unilateral strikes.
- Christina Ruffini emphasizes respecting Nigerian sovereignty and working with local authorities.
Security Vacuum In The Sahel
- French and British military withdrawals left a security vacuum across the Sahel that extremist groups exploit.
- Sir Richard warns the void risks creating ungoverned space for ISIS to expand and launch operations beyond Africa.