The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has officially confirmed that the United States military carried out airstrikes on terrorist targets in north-western Nigeria on Thursday.
In a press statement released on Friday, the government said the operation was executed through structured security cooperation and intelligence collaboration between Nigeria and the United States.
Airstrikes Targeted Terrorist Hideouts
According to the ministry, the airstrikes were precise and intelligence-driven, targeting identified hideouts of terrorist groups operating in the North-West.
The statement noted that the joint action reflects ongoing cooperation aimed at dismantling violent extremist networks and restoring security across affected regions.
“Cooperation between Nigeria and the United States has led to precision hits on terrorist targets in Nigeria through airstrikes in the North-West,” the statement said.
Nigeria-US Security Cooperation
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that the partnership includes intelligence sharing, strategic coordination, and other forms of security support.
It stressed that all engagements are carried out in line with international law, respect for national sovereignty, and shared commitments to regional and global security.
“This cooperation includes the exchange of intelligence and strategic coordination, consistent with international law and mutual respect for sovereignty,” the ministry added.
Government Issues Strong Warning to Terrorists
The federal government warned that no part of Nigeria will remain safe for terrorists and violent extremists, regardless of where they operate.
It emphasized that terrorism—whether targeting Christians, Muslims, or any other group—remains unacceptable and contrary to Nigeria’s values.
“Terrorist violence in any form remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security,” the statement said.
Civilian Protection Remains Priority
The government reiterated that all counter-terrorism operations prioritize the protection of civilians, national unity, and the rights of all citizens, irrespective of religion or ethnicity.
It added that Nigeria will continue working with international partners to disrupt terrorist financing, logistics, and cross-border threats, while strengthening domestic security and intelligence institutions.
US Confirms Strikes, Warns of Further Action
The confirmation follows an announcement by US President Donald Trump, who said American forces carried out what he described as successful and deadly strikes against terrorist groups in Nigeria’s North-West.
The US Department of War also confirmed the operation, stating that the strikes followed previous warnings to terrorist groups to halt attacks on civilians.
US officials warned that further military action could follow if such attacks continue.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it will continue to engage relevant partners and keep Nigerians informed through official channels.
The USA Department of War has just published video footage of President Trump’s military strike in Sokoto, Nigeria
— NaijaWide Media (@Naijawide01) December 26, 2025
