The US and Nigeria have launched a joint operation against ISIS-linked camps in Sokoto State, Nigeria. The airstrikes, approved by President Bola Tinubu, targeted foreign fighters infiltrating from the Sahel region.
The operation involved 16 GPS-guided precision munitions deployed using MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial platforms, successfully neutralizing the targeted ISIS elements. Intelligence indicated the camps were planning large-scale attacks inside Nigeria.
Trump Announced The Joint Operation On Truth Social
US President Donald Trump announced the strike on Truth Social, stating that US forces had launched the attack at Nigeria’s request. He described the operation as “numerous perfect strikes” and warned of more to come.
The strikes were launched from maritime platforms in the Gulf of Guinea, following extensive intelligence gathering and planning. No civilian casualties were reported, although debris fell in two towns in Sokoto and Kwara states.
Sokoto State authorities confirmed the strikes and urged residents to remain calm, stating that operations are geared towards securing the state and protecting lives and property.
Nigeria has battled Islamist insurgents for over a decade, but the presence of foreign fighters linked to ISIS signals an escalation in the threat. The government remains committed to protecting lives and property and vows further action against transnational extremist networks.
The operation marks a rare joint action between Nigeria and the US, underscoring growing security cooperation as Islamist violence spreads south from the Sahel.
The Nigerian government said the camps were being used by foreign ISIS elements working with local affiliates to plan attacks. The strikes were a response to the group’s targeting of Christians in the region.
The US Africa Command said its initial assessment indicated multiple ISIS fighters were killed. The Nigerian government vowed to continue protecting lives and property.
The operation was carried out between 00:12 hours and 01:30 hours on December 26, 2025. Debris from the strikes fell in Jabo, Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State, and in Offa, Kwara State.
Residents in affected areas were urged to remain calm and vigilant. The Nigerian government said it would continue to work with international partners to combat terrorism.
The strikes demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to fighting terrorism and protecting its citizens. The government said it would not hesitate to take further action against extremist groups.
The US and Nigeria have a long-standing partnership in combating terrorism. This operation highlights their continued cooperation in addressing regional security threats.
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