by Ebuka Goodluck |ABNews| December 26, 2025
The United States has carried out a series of coordinated airstrikes on terrorist enclaves in Northwest Nigeria, following intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling extremist groups responsible for deadly attacks on civilians.
Former U.S. President Donald J. Trump, in a statement released on Thursday night, confirmed that the strikes were executed under his directive, describing them as decisive actions against what he termed “ISIS terrorist elements” operating in the region.
According to Trump, the operation targeted groups accused of carrying out brutal attacks, particularly against Christian communities.
“Tonight, at my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS terrorist scum in Northwest Nigeria,” Trump stated. “They have been targeting and viciously killing innocent people. The United States will not allow radical terrorism to thrive.”
Trump added that the operation involved what he described as “precision strikes” carried out by U.S. forces, warning that continued attacks on civilians would attract even more forceful responses.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government of Nigeria has officially acknowledged the development, confirming that the operation was part of ongoing security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.
In a press statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, the government said the airstrikes were conducted within the framework of existing bilateral agreements and intelligence-sharing arrangements between both countries.
“The Federal Republic of Nigeria remains engaged in structured security cooperation with international partners, including the United States of America, in addressing the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism,” the statement read.
According to the ministry, the operation involved coordinated intelligence efforts and precision strikes targeting terrorist hideouts in the North West, stressing that such actions align with international law and respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty.
The ministry further emphasized that Nigeria’s counterterrorism strategy prioritizes the protection of civilian lives and national unity, noting that acts of terror; regardless of whether they target Christians, Muslims, or any other group—remain an assault on the country’s core values.
“Terrorist violence in any form is an affront to Nigeria’s commitment to peace, unity, and security,” the statement added.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with international partners to dismantle terrorist networks, disrupt their funding channels, and prevent cross-border threats, while continuing to strengthen Nigeria’s own security and intelligence capabilities.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured Nigerians that it would continue to engage relevant partners and provide updates through official channels as efforts to restore peace and stability in affected regions continue.
The statement was signed by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, on Friday, December 26, 2025.
