Nigeria’s handling of the escalating wave of school kidnappings has come under renewed international scrutiny, as the United States escalates its criticism and demands tougher action from the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a statement posted Monday on X, the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs expressed deep concern over the recent mass abductions in Kebbi and Niger states, where more than 300 students were seized in two separate attacks. The agency’s message—unusually direct for diplomatic communication—called for an urgent and uncompromising response.
“The United States condemns the mass abduction of reportedly over 300 students and teachers… Those responsible for these crimes must be swiftly captured and held accountable. The Nigerian government must act decisively and do more to protect Christians and ensure Nigerians can live, learn, and practice their religion freely,” the statement read in part.
The stern warning follows a broader pattern of increasingly outspoken remarks from U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump, who has in recent days openly faulted the Tinubu administration for what he described as the country’s deteriorating security situation.
Speaking on Fox News Radio, Trump intensified his criticism, calling the situation in Nigeria “a disgrace” and accusing authorities of failing to stop widespread killings.
“They’re killing people by the thousands. It’s a genocide… And I’m really angry about it,” Trump said, hinting that the U.S. could suspend financial aid and even consider military intervention if attacks—especially those targeting Christians—continue unchecked.
The sharp rhetoric has heightened diplomatic tensions, as several Nigerian states continue to shut down schools amid public anxiety. Some of the abducted students reportedly managed to escape over the weekend, reuniting with their families, but many more remain unaccounted for.
So far, the Tinubu administration has not issued a formal response to the U.S. allegations or the escalating warnings from Washington. However, the mounting pressure underscores Nigeria’s growing challenge: restoring public confidence while navigating intensifying international scrutiny over its struggle with insecurity.
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