Trump announces U.S. Strike on Islamic state targets in Nigeria

The United States has carried out airstrikes targeting fighters linked to the Islamic State group in northwest Nigeria, marking a notable escalation in international counter-terrorism efforts in the country. The strikes were announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on Christmas Day and later confirmed by U.S. Africa Command.

According to official statements, the operation took place in Sokoto State, an area that has experienced increased militant activity in recent months. The U.S. military said the strikes were conducted in coordination with Nigerian authorities and resulted in the killing of several Islamic State-affiliated fighters. The operation was described as a precision strike aimed at degrading the group’s operational capabilities.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also acknowledged the airstrikes, explaining that they were part of ongoing structured security cooperation between Nigeria and international partners, including the United States. The ministry noted that the collaboration involves intelligence sharing, strategic coordination, and support consistent with international law and respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty.

The Federal Government reiterated that all counter-terrorism actions are guided by the protection of civilian lives and the preservation of national unity. Officials stressed that terrorist violence in Nigeria affects communities across religious and ethnic lines, and that the country remains committed to confronting extremism in all its forms.

President Trump, in his announcement, framed the strikes as a response to extremist violence in Nigeria, particularly attacks on civilian populations. His comments have drawn attention to Nigeria’s broader security challenges, which include insurgency, banditry, and militant activity across several regions.
Security analysts say the strikes highlight the deepening security relationship between Abuja and Washington, as Nigeria continues to rely on international partnerships to strengthen its counter-terrorism capacity. While military cooperation has intensified, Nigerian authorities maintain that long-term stability will also require strengthened local institutions and sustained diplomatic engagement.
As both governments continue to coordinate efforts, the airstrikes signal a renewed focus on disrupting terrorist networks operating within Nigeria and preventing the spread of extremist violence across the wider West African region.