US Confirms Airstrike on ISIS Camps in Nigeria as Abuja Backs Operation
ABUJA, Nigeria — The United States carried out an airstrike on Islamic State–aligned militants in northwest Nigeria on Dec. 25, targeting what officials described as active ISIS camps in Sokoto State. The strike was ordered by President Donald Trump and conducted in coordination with the Nigerian government, according to statements from both countries.
How the Strike Unfolded
The operation focused on ISIS fighters accused of carrying out deadly attacks in the region. Trump announced the strike in a Christmas night post on his Truth Social platform, saying, “Tonight, at my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS Terrorist Scum in Northwest Nigeria, who have been targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians, at levels not seen for many years, and even Centuries!”
U.S. Africa Command later confirmed the mission and said it was carried out at Nigeria’s request. The command stated that multiple ISIS militants were killed in the strike. U.S. officials described the operation as part of ongoing efforts to disrupt extremist networks that have expanded across parts of West Africa in recent years.
The announcement marked one of the most direct acknowledgments of U.S. military action inside Nigeria, a country that has historically limited foreign combat involvement on its soil. By confirming the strike openly, officials emphasized its importance and the close cooperation between the two governments.
The strike hit sites in Sokoto State, an area where ISIS‑affiliated cells have increased activity and carried out attacks on local communities. U.S. officials released nighttime footage showing munitions being launched at the targets, though they did not specify whether the strike was conducted by aircraft, drones, or another platform. The military described the mission as a precision operation guided by shared intelligence and coordinated planning.
Security analysts note that Sokoto has become a focal point for extremist groups seeking to expand beyond the northeast, where Boko Haram and ISIS‑West Africa have long operated. The Dec. 25 strike suggests the U.S. and Nigeria are broadening their counterterrorism cooperation to address threats emerging in new regions.
Casualties and Impact
U.S. officials said the strike resulted in the deaths of several ISIS militants. Neither government has confirmed whether civilians were harmed, and both sides emphasized that the operation targeted known militant locations. Nigerian authorities described the strike as a “precision hit” based on intelligence developed jointly with U.S. counterparts.
Local reaction has varied. Some religious leaders and advocates have brought forth concerns about sovereignty and transparency and questioned the decision to permit foreign military action in Nigeria. However, others viewed the operation as a needed effort to disrupt extremist factions responsible for kidnappings, killings and repeated attacks in rural areas.
The exchange underscores persistent strains in Nigeria’s security environment. Residents have grown more frustrated with the expansion of armed groups and there is mounting pressure on local law enforcement. The government’s move to coordinate with the U.S. signals a turn toward wider international cooperation as it responds to these threats.
Nigeria’s Government Response
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed with a press release posted on X, that the strike was coordinated with Abuja and framed it as part of ongoing security cooperation. The ministry stated, “This has led to precision hits on terrorist targets in Nigeria by air strikes in the North West.”
Officials also rejected Trump’s claim that ISIS militants were primarily targeting Christians, saying armed groups attack both Muslim and Christian communities. Nigerian authorities emphasized that the country’s security challenges affect citizens across religious and ethnic lines.
The government’s response sought to balance acknowledgment of U.S. support with reassurance that Nigeria remains in control of its security strategy. Officials stressed that the strike was not a unilateral action by the United States but part of a coordinated effort requested by Nigeria.
How the Strike Fits Into the Larger Fight
The Dec. 25 operation reflects deepening U.S.–Nigeria security cooperation at a time when extremist groups are expanding their reach across the region. Nigeria has battled jihadist organizations for more than a decade, including Boko Haram and ISIS‑linked factions that have splintered and spread into new territories.
The strike also points to shifting elements of U.S. counterterrorism strategy in West Africa. Although the U.S. has long offered training, intelligence and logistical assistance to regional partners, direct military action inside Nigeria has been uncommon. Publicly acknowledging this operation indicates a readiness to take more assertive steps when partner governments request support.
For Nigeria, the airstrike comes amid rising pressure to address insecurity in the northwest. Armed groups have carried out mass kidnappings, village raids and attacks on security forces. Working with the U.S. shows an effort to strengthen security capabilities and respond more directly to extremist activity.
As more details come out, officials in Abuja say their priority is protecting civilians while responding to public concern about foreign military involvement. The airstrike has reopened debate over how Nigeria should address extremist violence, while also highlighting the scale of the challenge and the importance of coordinated action.
