The United States has confirmed carrying out airstrikes against Islamic State militants in northwest Nigeria, US President Donald Trump announced on Thursday, describing the operation as part of efforts to curb escalating extremist violence in the region.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said the strikes were “powerful and deadly,” targeting Islamic State fighters accused of killing civilians, particularly Christians. He said the action was authorised under his powers as Commander in Chief and reaffirmed Washington’s resolve to combat terrorism.
The US Africa Command said the operation was conducted in Sokoto State in collaboration with Nigerian authorities, adding that several militants were neutralised.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs later confirmed the strikes, describing them as the result of coordinated intelligence sharing and security cooperation between both countries. The Ministry noted that the engagement followed established international practices and bilateral agreements.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth also hinted at further action, thanking the Nigerian government for its cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts.
While US officials have framed the strikes as a response to attacks on civilians, Nigerian authorities have cautioned against portraying the country’s insecurity as purely religious, stressing the broader and complex nature of the violence.
The Foreign Ministry emphasised that Nigeria remains committed to protecting civilians of all faiths and continues to work with international partners to dismantle terrorist networks and strengthen national security institutions.
