Nigeria has welcomed potential U.S. support in its fight against armed groups but emphasized that any cooperation must respect the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The statement follows comments by U.S. President Donald Trump, who suggested a possible “rapid military intervention” in Nigeria if authorities fail to stop what he described as “the killing of large numbers of Christians.”

In an official statement, a Nigerian government spokesperson said the country is “committed to protecting all citizens without discrimination,” adding that security cooperation with Washington is “welcome as long as it aligns with international law and Nigeria’s sovereignty.”

Trump’s remarks on Saturday — indicating he had directed the Pentagon to prepare for possible action in Nigeria — sparked debate among Nigerian political and military circles.