US launches Christmas Day airstrikes on ISIS hideouts in northwest Nigeria

The United States has carried out targeted airstrikes against suspected ISIS militants in northwest Nigeria, marking a major counter-terrorism operation carried out on Christmas Day.

Former US President Donald Trump announced the operation on Truth Social, revealing that he authorised what he described as a “powerful and deadly strike” against ISIS fighters operating in the region.

The strikes were reportedly conducted by the US Africa Command (AFRICOM) in collaboration with Nigerian security authorities and focused on terrorist targets in Sokoto State.

According to initial reports, several ISIS-linked militants were killed during the precision airstrikes, with no civilian casualties recorded.

Trump said the action was taken in response to continued attacks on communities, particularly Christians, and warned that further military action could follow if the violence persists.

Following the development, Nigeria’s Federal Government confirmed that the country is working closely with the United States and other international partners through a structured security and intelligence framework.

In a statement issued in Abuja by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the government said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremism in the country.

The ministry explained that cooperation with the US is based on intelligence sharing, strategic coordination and other forms of support, all conducted in line with international law, mutual respect for sovereignty and existing bilateral agreements.

Officials stressed that such engagements are standard international counter-terrorism practice and are aimed at improving national and regional security while responding effectively to evolving threats.

“Terrorist violence in any form, whether directed at Christians, Muslims or other communities, remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security,” the ministry stated.

The Federal Government also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilian lives, preserving national unity and safeguarding the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of religion or ethnicity.

It added that Nigeria will continue working with recognised diplomatic and security partners to weaken terrorist networks, disrupt funding and logistics channels, and prevent cross-border threats.

In addition, the ministry noted that Nigeria is strengthening its own security institutions and intelligence capabilities as part of a broader strategy to sustainably address terrorism and violent extremism, assuring the public that updates will be provided through official channels as operations continue.