A fresh wave of tension has erupted after Donald Trump reportedly directed the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) to review “operational options” for Nigeria and South Africa, citing alleged security and human-rights concerns.

According to Washington insiders, AFRICOM is evaluating non-combat contingencies ranging from intelligence surveillance to targeted sanctions. The development follows Trump’s repeated warnings that the U.S. “will not tolerate nations that sponsor anti-Christian violence.”

Nigeria’s government swiftly denounced the statement as an act of provocation. Presidential aides said the administration is working through diplomatic channels to prevent escalation. “This is political theatre designed for the American electorate,” noted one Abuja analyst, dismissing it as campaign posturing.

The report, however, spooked local markets and rattled the naira. Security analysts warn that such rhetoric could harm Nigeria’s international partnerships, especially with U.S. investors in energy and defence.

Observers argue that diplomatic maturity will be key. “Nigeria must stay calm, maintain alliances, and avoid knee-jerk reactions,” said a retired ambassador.

As both sides navigate this uneasy episode, attention now turns to whether the White House or Congress will distance itself from Trump’s inflammatory stance, before markets react again.