US Launches Airstrikes on Islamic State Fighters in Northwest Nigeria, FG Confirms Security Cooperation
The United States has confirmed the launch of airstrikes against Islamic State fighters in northwest Nigeria, a development announced by President Donald Trump on Thursday as part of a broader military response to escalating extremist violence in the region.
In his statement, President Trump described the strikes as “powerful and deadly,” noting that they specifically targeted militants responsible for attacks on civilians, particularly Christian communities. He stressed that the operation was undertaken under his constitutional authority as Commander‑in‑Chief and reaffirmed America’s commitment to combating radical terrorism.
The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) disclosed that the strikes were conducted in Sokoto State in close coordination with Nigerian authorities, resulting in the neutralisation of multiple insurgents.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, confirmed that the precision strikes were the product of structured security cooperation and intelligence collaboration between Nigeria and the United States. The Ministry emphasized that such cooperation is consistent with international law, bilateral agreements, and respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated that further operations may follow, underscoring Washington’s determination to confront extremist groups.
The Nigerian government, while acknowledging the partnership, reiterated that the country’s security challenges are complex and not solely religious in nature, as militants have targeted diverse communities. The Ministry stressed that all counter‑terrorism measures are guided by the principles of civilian protection, national unity, and respect for human rights, irrespective of faith or ethnicity.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to working with international partners to dismantle terrorist networks, disrupt financing and logistics, prevent cross‑border threats, and strengthen Nigeria’s own security and intelligence institutions.
