The United States has conducted airstrikes against Islamic State (ISIL/ISIS) militants in northwest Nigeria, President Donald Trump announced on Christmas Day, saying the action was carried out under his direction as Commander-in-Chief in response to what he described as ongoing militant violence against civilians, particularly Christians in the region. The strikes occurred in Sokoto State and targeted ISIS-linked fighters, resulting in the deaths of multiple militants, according to statements from the US Africa Command (AFRICOM).
Trump posted on his social media platform that the “powerful and deadly strike” was intended to punish militant groups responsible for vicious killings, asserting that Washington had previously warned such actions would bring severe consequences. Defence officials, including US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, praised the operation and acknowledged cooperation with the Nigerian government.
Nigeria’s foreign ministry confirmed the airstrikes were conducted as part of ongoing security cooperation, involving intelligence sharing and joint efforts to confront extremist threats. However, Nigerian authorities have stressed that armed groups in the country target both Muslim and Christian communities, cautioning against framing the violence solely as religious persecution.
The military action adds to a series of international counter-terrorism efforts by the United States, which has previously launched strikes against ISIS affiliates in other regions this year.