The United States military launched targeted strikes against Islamic State (IS)-linked militants in northwestern Nigeria, aiming to disrupt the group’s attempts to establish a foothold in the region.
The strikes targeted militant camps in Sokoto state, near Nigeria’s border with Niger, with an initial assessment suggesting multiple fatalities, according to US military officials.
US President Donald Trump described the Christmas Day strikes as “powerful and deadly”, labelling the militants as “terrorist scum” and claiming they had been targeting innocent civilians.
Nigerian Government Confirms Joint Operation
Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar clarified that the strikes were part of a joint operation with the United States and were not aimed at any particular religion. He emphasized that the operation was planned using intelligence provided by Nigeria and could be followed by further strikes if necessary.
“The timing of the strikes had nothing to do with Christmas,” Tuggar added, stating that the goal was to target terrorists responsible for ongoing attacks in Nigeria.
Rise of IS-Linked Groups in Northwestern Nigeria
The strikes come amid growing concerns about IS-affiliated splinter groups, including Boko Haram offshoots, which have been active in northeastern Nigeria for over a decade. While the largest IS-linked group, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), operates mainly in Borno state, smaller groups such as Lakurwa have recently moved into Sokoto and Kebbi states.
Conflict analysts suggest these groups have been establishing camps and imposing social laws in northwestern Nigeria over the past 18 months.
Casualties and Humanitarian Impact
Although US officials highlighted the tactical success of the strikes, human rights organizations note that victims of jihadist violence in Nigeria have been both Muslim and Christian, and there is no evidence of targeted persecution of Christians. Central Nigeria also faces violent clashes between herders and farming communities, adding to the complex security situation.
US and Nigeria Coordination Against Terrorism
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized ongoing cooperation with international partners, stating:
“This has led to precision hits on terrorist targets in Nigeria by air strikes in the North West.”
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth expressed gratitude for Nigerian support, while the Department of Defense shared footage showing missile strikes against militant positions.
Recent US Strikes Against IS Globally
The strikes in Nigeria follow recent US military operations targeting IS in Syria, where fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery struck over 70 targets in retaliation for the killing of three Americans in an ambush.
