U.S. carries out airstrikes on terrorist targets in Nigeria on Christmas day
Story by By: Yahaya Saleh Muhammad
The United States on Christmas Day carried out airstrikes on suspected Islamic State–linked terrorist targets in Nigeria, marking a significant escalation in U.S. military involvement in the country’s fight against insurgency.
The strikes, which took place on December 25, targeted militant hideouts in parts of North West Nigeria, particularly areas believed to be linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). U.S. authorities said the operation was aimed at degrading the group’s operational capacity and preventing further attacks.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the strikes, stating that the action was taken in response to attacks allegedly carried out by Islamic State fighters, including violence against Christian communities. He described the operation as a decisive response to growing extremist threats in the region.
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Nigeria’s Federal Government later confirmed the airstrikes, explaining that they were conducted as part of structured security cooperation and intelligence sharing between Nigeria and the United States. In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government said the operation respected Nigeria’s sovereignty and was carried out in line with international law.
The ministry emphasized that the partnership with the U.S. and other allies is focused on combating terrorism and violent extremism, while prioritizing the protection of civilians. It also rejected suggestions that the strikes were targeted at any religious group, stressing that terrorism affects Nigerians of all faiths and ethnic backgrounds.
U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) said the strikes were precision operations carried out in coordination with Nigerian authorities. Meanwhile, U.S. officials indicated that further military action could follow if terrorist threats persist.
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The airstrikes come amid worsening insecurity in northern Nigeria, where militant groups and armed bandits have continued to carry out deadly attacks, displacing communities and disrupting livelihoods.
Nigerian authorities assured the public that counter-terrorism efforts would continue through lawful partnerships and intelligence-driven operations aimed at restoring peace and stability across affected regions.
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