The United States Bureau of Counterterrorism has rejected claims that the increasing violence in Nigeria stems from land disputes. Instead, it emphasizes that President Donald Trump is aware that these attacks are orchestrated by a coordinated jihadist effort aimed at establishing an Islamic caliphate in West Africa.

In its recent report, the Bureau highlights groups such as ISWAP, Boko Haram, and armed Fulani militants as the main culprits behind mass killings, kidnappings, and targeted violence against Christian communities. The report notes that these extremist organizations are taking advantage of fragile security systems and have extended their operations throughout the Northeast, North-Central, and border regions.

The Bureau cautions that the pattern of violent acts—ranging from church arsons to the systematic destruction of farming villages—indicates a deliberate strategy focused on territorial expansion and religious purification, rather than simple resource conflicts.

This assessment supports a recent detailed congressional report submitted to the White House, which lists 11 key demands for Nigeria. These include the abolition of Sharia law, sanctions against those responsible for violence, and restrictions on beef exports to help disarm Fulani militants.