The United States has carried out airstrikes on terrorist targets in Nigeria, marking a significant escalation in international cooperation against insecurity in the country.
According to reports, the U.S. military targeted Islamic State-linked terrorists operating in parts of northwest Nigeria, following intelligence on attacks linked to the group. The operation was reportedly conducted in coordination with Nigerian security authorities, with officials stressing that Nigeria’s sovereignty was respected.
U.S. officials said the strikes were aimed at degrading the operational capacity of terrorist groups responsible for violent attacks on civilians, including assaults on communities and security formations. While details of casualties remain limited, multiple terrorist camps were said to have been hit.
At the direction of the President of the United States and the Secretary of War, U.S. Africa Command conducted strikes against ISIS terrorists in Nigeria on Dec. 25, 2025, in Sokoto State. The command’s initial assessment is that multiple ISIS terrorists were killed in the ISIS camps.
Reacting, the Federal Government of Nigeria acknowledged the strikes, describing them as part of ongoing structured security cooperation between both countries. Nigerian authorities also emphasized that terrorism affects Nigerians across religious and ethnic lines and should not be misrepresented.
Nigeria has faced prolonged security challenges from insurgency, banditry, and extremist violence, particularly in the North East and North West. Analysts say the U.S. action highlights growing global concern over the spread of terrorism in the region and renewed pressure to strengthen counter-terrorism efforts.
The development has sparked mixed reactions nationwide, with some Nigerians welcoming the move as a boost to security operations, while others raised questions about foreign military involvement.
