Nigeria- US conduct precision strikes against ISIS targets in Northwest Nigeria –Defence spokesperson
The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with the United States, has carried out precision strike operations against identified foreign ISIS-linked elements operating in parts of Northwest Nigeria.
The operation, executed with the approval of the Federal Government, aims to degrade the capability of the targeted elements while minimising collateral damage.
The operation underscores the resolve of the Federal Government of Nigeria to protect life and property and restore lasting peace and security across the country.
It also highlights the country’s commitment to working with strategic partners to combat terrorism.
The US has been conducting intelligence-gathering flights over large parts of Nigeria since late November, indicating increased security cooperation between the two countries.
US President Donald Trump confirmed the strike, stating that it targeted ISIS militants who had been “targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians” in the region.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has called for peace and cooperation among individuals of differing religious beliefs, emphasising the need to address the complex security situation in the country.
The text of the defence spokesperson’s press release on the subject matter is reproduced in extenso here under:
DEFENCE HEADQUARTERS
ABUJA
PRESS RELEASE
ARMED FORCES OF NIGERIA, IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE UNITED STATES, CONDUCTS PRECISION STRIKES AGAINST FOREIGN ISIS ELEMENTS IN NORTH WEST NIGERIA
The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in conjunction with the United States of America, has conducted precision strike operations against identified foreign ISIS-linked elements operating in parts of North West Nigeria. The operation was executed with the approval of the appropriate Federal Government authorities and forms part of ongoing coordinated efforts to rid the country of terrorists and other criminal elements threatening national security.
The strike followed credible intelligence and careful operational planning aimed at degrading the capability of the targeted elements while minimising collateral damage. The operation underscores the resolve of the Federal Government of Nigeria, working with strategic partners, to confront transnational terrorism and prevent foreign fighters from establishing or expanding footholds within Nigeria’s borders.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria reiterates its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property and to supporting joint and inter-agency efforts to restore lasting peace and security across the country.
SAMAILA UBA
Major General
Director of Defence Information
26 December 2025
