The United States is deploying 200 troops to Nigeria as violence linked to Islamist militant groups continues to devastate communities, including Christian populations across parts of the country.
According to Fox News, the troop deployment is set to help combat extremist groups responsible for deadly attacks. Fox states that American forces will assist Nigerian military operations targeting terror organizations including Boko Haram and ISIS-linked groups.
During the segment, President Donald Trump emphasized the severity of violence facing Christians in the region. “When Christians come under attack, they know they will be attacked violently and viciously,” Trump said. “I know it is not a nice thing to say but that’s the way it is.”
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The move comes as extremist violence continues to hammer Christians in Nigeria. Congressman Riley Moore also described the severity of recent violence on the ground. “The folks I’m talking to on the ground have described what is happening in the Middle Belt in the north of Nigeria right now in the last ten days as a bloodbath,” Moore said. “Just wanton death and murder and destruction that continues.”
Fox further described how militants have carried out attacks targeting markets, villages and schools across the country. According to the report, more than 240 people have been killed so far this year in militant violence.
It is also believed that U.S. military will work alongside an existing smaller American footprint already operating in the region with the goal of supporting Nigerian forces in counterterrorism.
During this time of increased persecution, lift up the Nigerian Church in prayer, that they would be able to stand strong and keep their faith in Jesus no matter what comes their way.
Abby Trivett is a writer and editor for Charisma Media and has a passion for sharing the gospel through the written word. She holds two degrees from Regent University, a B.A. in Communication with a concentration in Journalism and a Master of Arts in Journalism. She is the author of the upcoming book, The Power of Suddenly: Discover How God Can Change Everything in a Moment. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].
