The United States confirmed airstrikes against ISIS in Nigeria, in a joint operation that highlights growing security concerns in West Africa.
United States confirmed it carried out targeted airstrikes against positions of the self-proclaimed Islamic State (ISIS) in northwestern Nigeria, in a military operation coordinated with Nigerian authorities and framed as a response to ongoing extremist violence in the region.
The announcement came from U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated that the strikes aimed to “neutralize terrorists responsible for brutal attacks against civilians.” Shortly afterward, U.S.
Africa Command (AFRICOM) confirmed that the operation was conducted at Nigeria’s request and resulted in the deaths of several ISIS militants.
According to AFRICOM, the strikes focused on the state of Sokoto, an area long affected by armed groups linked to ISIS and other insurgent organizations.
The mission relied on shared intelligence and formed part of broader security cooperation that includes aerial surveillance, intelligence sharing, and strategic coordination.
Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar described the action as a “joint counterterrorism operation” and stressed that it was not driven by religious motives.
He confirmed that Nigerian intelligence played a central role in planning the strikes and said additional operations could follow if threats persist.
The airstrikes come amid rising international concern over ISIS expansion in West Africa, where the group has exploited instability, weak governance, and vast ungoverned territories.
While Nigerian officials maintain that violence affects both Muslims and Christians, Washington has repeatedly voiced concern about attacks on Christian communities in certain areas.
Reports also revealed that U.S. forces had increased intelligence-gathering flights over Nigeria in recent weeks, signaling the possibility of direct military involvement.
Footage released by the Pentagon showed precision munitions launched from naval platforms, underscoring the scale and sophistication of the operation.
Nigerian authorities defended cooperation with Washington as essential to strengthening national security capabilities. President Bola Tinubu reiterated his commitment to protecting religious freedom and safeguarding all citizens regardless of belief.
The strikes are part of a broader U.S. campaign against ISIS, following recent operations in Syria and other regions where the group remains active.
Despite the collapse of its territorial caliphate in the Middle East, ISIS continues to operate through dispersed cells across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
Experts caution that while airstrikes can degrade militant networks, long-term stability will depend on political reforms, economic development, and social cohesion.
Nigeria now faces the challenge of countering extremism while preventing further internal divisions, in a country where security remains one of the most pressing national issues.
