United States forces have carried out targeted airstrikes against Islamic State–affiliated militants operating in northwest Nigeria, marking a rare but significant escalation in Washington’s direct military involvement in the country’s counterterrorism campaign.
The strikes, executed between December 25 and 26, 2025, were confirmed by U.S. Africa Command, which said the operation was conducted in coordination with Nigerian authorities.
According to U.S. officials, the air assault focused on militant enclaves believed to be linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province and associated factions responsible for repeated attacks on civilians.
Speaking on the operation, U.S. President Donald Trump described the strikes as decisive action against extremist elements destabilising parts of Nigeria.
He said the militants targeted had been involved in violent campaigns that disproportionately affected vulnerable communities, adding that the United States would continue to act against transnational terror threats when necessary.
Moreover, U.S. Africa Command stated that the mission was intelligence-driven and aimed at degrading the operational capacity of the terror group.
While specific casualty figures were not immediately disclosed, officials said initial assessments indicated that several high-value targets were neutralised.
The airstrikes underscore a broader shift in U.S.–Nigeria security relations, highlighting renewed American willingness to intervene directly against terrorist groups with regional and global reach.
As further details emerge, attention will likely focus on the impact of the strikes on militant operations and the long-term implications for Nigeria’s internal security strategy.
Post a Comment
Drop Your Comment In The Box Below